BRN Alt Com Aus

ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS—AUSTRALIA
2016
Management Guide
BROWN
HY-LINE BROWN: ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS—AUSTRALIA
USE OF THE MANAGEMENT GUIDE INTRODUCTION
Management systems which are alternatives to conventional layer cages have been developed to satisfy the increasing
The genetic potential of Hy-Line Brown in alternative systems of housing can only be realized if both good poultry consumer demand for eggs produced in systems that provide a more enriched bird environment, where natural bird
husbandry practices and appropriate management practices are used. This management guide outlines successful flock behaviors can be expressed. These production systems require different management to optimize production and bird
management programs for Hy-Line Variety Brown based on field experience compiled by Hy-Line International and using welfare. Generally, alternative production systems fall into three broad categories:
an extensive commercial flock database of Hy-Line flocks from all parts of the world. Hy-Line International Management
Guides are periodically updated as new performance data and/or nutrition information become available. Barn Systems—Floor systems which may consist of all slats, a combination of slats and litter, or all litter. Birds are allowed
to freely move within the house. An elevated slat area with nests, feeders, perches and waterers is provided. Automatic
The information and suggestions contained in this management guide should be used for guidance and educational colony nest boxes are utilized for egg collection.
purposes only, recognizing that local environmental and disease conditions may vary and a guide cannot cover all possible
Aviary Systems—Multi-tier structures over a litter floor where nests, feeders, waterers, perches and welfare enrichments
circumstances. While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information presented is accurate and reliable at
are provided. Aviary systems are typically designed to have feeders on some levels, and nests and waterers on other
the time of publication, Hy-Line International cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in such
levels. The ground floor level is often designed to allow confined brooding of chicks. The litter floor area should be greater
information or management suggestions. Further, Hy-Line International does not warrant or make any representations or
than 30% of the usable space in the aviary, including slat floors but excluding the nests. The top level is typically for birds
guarantees regarding the use, validity, accuracy, or reliability of, or flock performance or productivity resulting from the
to rest/sleep. Aviaries increase the living space within a house, allowing the placement of more birds.
use of, or otherwise respecting, such information or management suggestions. In no event shall Hy-Line International be
liable for any special, indirect or consequential damages or special damages whatsoever arising out of or in connection Free Range Systems—Barn or aviary systems where birds have access to the outside. Outside areas can be pasture
with the use of the information or management suggestions contained in this management guide. areas with perimeter fencing, or summer porches or verandas which are enclosed with overhead mesh. Some free range
systems allow constant access to pasture/range areas and utilize mobile housing units with feed and water, which are
periodically moved to keep the pasture fresh.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Production Period Nutritional Recommendations . . . . . . . 22
Summary of Performance Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Dietary Nutrient Concentrations for Production Period. . . 23
Performance Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4 Vitamins and Trace Minerals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Chick Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Feed Particle Size (Grist). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Infrared Beak Treatment (IRBT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Calcium Particle Size. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Brooding Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–7 Preventing Floor Eggs in Aviary / Barn Systems. . . . . . . . . 26
Intermittent Lighting Program for Chicks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Management of Aviary Flocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27–28
Partial House Brooding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Management of Free Range Flocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29–31
Growth and Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–10 Pophole Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Aviary systems utilize the vertical space within a house to
allow better use of the facility and to provide environmental
Rearing Space Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Pasture Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 enrichments to increase bird welfare.
Rearing Body Weights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Predators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Uniformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11–12 Litter Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Barn systems allow birds free movement. Floors can be
Rearing Period Nutritional Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . 13 Grit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 slatted, littered or a combination of both.
Good Lighting Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Feather Pecking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Light Program for Light-Controlled Housing. . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Piling and Smothering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Customized Lighting Programs for Disease Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Open-Sided Housing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Internal Parasites. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35–36
Drinking Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
External Parasites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37–38
Air Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Vaccination Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39–40
Water Quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Flock Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Perches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Egg Quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Transition Period from Rear to Peak
Egg Size Distribution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42–43
Egg Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19–20
Growth Curve. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Transfer to the Laying House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Performance Graph. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Feed Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Aviary systems typically have littered scratch areas
Feed Ingredient Tables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46–47 between rows of multi-level living areas with feeders,
waterers and nests.
FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 1

HY-LINE BROWN: ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS—AUSTRALIA HY-LINE BROWN: ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS—AUSTRALIA
Summary of Performance Standards Performance Table

MORT- WATER
REARING PERIOD (TO 17 WEEKS): ALITY BODY CONSUMP- FEED
AGE Cumulative WEIGHT TION1 INTAKE2 UNIFORMITY
Livability 98% (weeks) (%) (g) (ml / bird / day) (g / bird / day)
Feed Consumed 6.06–6.43 kg 1 0.5 70 – 75 22 – 30 14 – 15
Body Weight at 17 Weeks 1.40–1.44 kg 2 0.7 110 – 125 27 – 42 17 – 21
3 0.8 170 – 190 37 – 50 23 – 25
LAYING PERIOD (TO 90 WEEKS): 4 0.9 240 – 270 43 – 58 28 – 30
Percent Peak 95–96% 5 Body weight and feed intake ranges 1.0 330 – 360 54 – 72 34 – 36 65–70%
are based on a global database.
Hen-Day Eggs to 60 Weeks 257–266 6 1.1 420 – 465 61 – 80 38 – 40
Local conditions will determine
Hen-Day Eggs to 72 Weeks 325–336 7 your flock results. Consult your 1.2 520 – 560 66 – 86 42 – 44
Hen-Day Eggs to 90 Weeks 419–432 8 local Hy-Line distributor for further 1.3 620 – 670 72 – 94 53 – 57
Hen-Housed Eggs to 60 Weeks 253–262 9 information and for results to expect 1.4 730 – 780 78 – 106 55 – 59
Hen-Housed Eggs to 72 Weeks 319–330 10 in your area. 1.5 840 – 890 83 – 112 58 – 62
Hen-Housed Eggs to 90 Weeks 408–421 11 1.6 940 – 990 93 – 124 62 – 65
70–75%
Livability to 60 Weeks 97% 12 1.6 1030 – 1080 99 – 136 65 – 69
80%
Days to 50% Production (from hatch) 140 days 15 1.8 1260 – 1300 115 – 152 76 – 80
Average Egg Weight at 26 Weeks 57.3–59.7 g / egg 16 1.9 1330 – 1370 120 – 158 78 – 82
85%
Average Egg Weight at 32 Weeks 60.1–62.5 g / egg 17 2.0 1400 – 1440 125 – 164 79 – 83
Average Egg Weight at 72 Weeks 63.0–65.6 g / egg
Total Egg Mass per Hen-Housed (18–90 Weeks) 25.5 kg MORT- WATER HEN- AVERAGE
% HEN- HEN-DAY HEN-HOUSED ALITY BODY CONSUMP- FEED HOUSED EGG
Body Weight at 32 Weeks 1.85–1.97 kg AGE DAY EGGS EGGS Cumulative WEIGHT TION1 INTAKE1,2 EGG MASS WEIGHT3
Body Weight at 72 Weeks 1.91–2.03 kg (weeks) Current Cumulative Cumulative (%) (kg) (ml / bird / day) (g / bird / day) Cumulative (kg) (g / egg)
Freedom From Egg Inclusions Excellent 18 4 – 14 0.3 – 1.0 0.3 – 1.0 0.0 1.47 – 1.57 131 – 186 82 – 93 0.0 48.8 – 50.0
19 24 – 38 2.0 – 3.6 2.0 – 3.6 0.1 1.57 – 1.67 136 – 192 85 – 96 0.1 49.0 – 51.0
Shell Strength Excellent
20 45 – 72 5.1 – 8.7 5.1 – 8.7 0.1 1.63 – 1.73 146 – 204 91 – 102 0.3 50.2 – 52.2
Shell Color Score at 38 Weeks 87 21 75 – 86 10.4 – 14.7 10.3 – 14.7 0.2 1.67 – 1.77 152 – 212 95 – 106 0.5 51.5 – 53.6
Shell Color Score at 56 Weeks 85
22 87 – 92 16.5 – 21.1 16.4 – 21.1 0.3 1.72 – 1.82 158 – 220 99 – 110 0.9 53.1 – 55.3
23 92 – 94 22.9 – 27.7 22.8 – 27.7 0.3 1.75 – 1.85 165 – 228 103 – 114 1.2 54.4 – 56.6
24 92 – 95 29.3 – 34.4 29.2 – 34.3 0.4 1.78 – 1.90 168 – 232 105 – 116 1.6 55.5 – 57.7
Haugh Units at 38 Weeks 90.0
25 93 – 95 35.8 – 41.0 35.7 – 40.9 0.4 1.79 – 1.91 170 – 234 106 – 117 2.0 56.6 – 59.0
26 94 – 96 42.4 – 47.7 42.3 – 47.6 0.5 1.80 – 1.92 171 – 236 107 – 118 2.3 57.3 – 59.7
Haugh Units at 90 Weeks 79.7 27 95 – 96 49.1 – 54.5 48.9 – 54.3 0.6 1.82 – 1.94 171 – 236 107 – 118 2.7 58.4 – 60.8
28 95 – 96 55.7 – 61.2 55.5 – 60.9 0.6 1.83 – 1.95 171 – 236 107 – 118 3.1 59.0 – 61.4
Average Daily Feed Consumption (18–90 weeks) 105–116 g / day per bird*
29 95 – 96 62.4 – 67.9 62.1 – 67.6 0.7 1.84 – 1.96 171 – 236 107 – 118 3.5 59.3 – 61.7
Feed Conversion Rate, kg Feed/kg Eggs (20–60 weeks) 1.96–2.17
30 94 – 96 69.0 – 74.6 68.6 – 74.3 0.7 1.84 – 1.96 171 – 236 107 – 118 3.9 59.7 – 62.1
31 94 – 96 75.5 – 81.3 75.1 – 80.9 0.8 1.84 – 1.96 173 – 238 108 – 119 4.3 59.9 – 62.3
32 94 – 95 82.1 – 88.0 81.7 – 87.5 0.9 1.85 – 1.97 173 – 238 108 – 119 4.7 60.1 – 62.5
Feed Utilization, kg Egg/kg Feed (20–60 weeks) 0.46–0.51
33 94 – 95 88.7 – 94.6 88.2 – 94.1 0.9 1.85 – 1.97 173 – 238 108 – 119 5.1 60.3 – 62.7
34 94 – 95 95.3 – 101.3 94.7 – 100.7 1.0 1.85 – 1.97 173 – 238 108 – 119 5.5 60.5 – 62.9
35 94 – 95 101.9 – 107.9 101.2 – 107.3 1.0 1.85 – 1.97 173 – 238 108 – 119 5.9 60.6 – 63.0
Feed Consumption per 10 Eggs (20–60 weeks) 1.19–1.26 kg
36 93 – 94 108.4 – 114.5 107.6 – 113.8 1.1 1.86 – 1.98 173 – 238 108 – 119 6.3 60.7 – 63.1
37 93 – 94 114.9 – 121.1 114.1 – 120.3 1.2 1.86 – 1.98 173 – 238 108 – 119 6.7 60.8 – 63.2
38 93 – 94 121.4 – 127.7 120.5 – 126.8 1.2 1.86 – 1.98 173 – 238 108 – 119 7.1 60.9 – 63.3
Feed Consumption per Dozen Eggs (20–60 weeks) 1.42–1.51 kg
39 92 – 93 127.8 – 134.2 126.9 – 133.2 1.3 1.87 – 1.99 173 – 238 108 – 119 7.5 61.0 – 63.4
Feed Consumption per Dozen Eggs (20–72 weeks) 1.45–1.55 kg
Feed Consumption per Dozen Eggs (20–90 weeks) 1.51–1.62 kg 40 92 – 93 134.3 – 140.7 133.2 – 139.6 1.4 1.87 – 1.99 173 – 238 108 – 119 7.9 61.1 – 63.5
41 91 – 93 140.6 – 147.2 139.5 – 146.0 1.4 1.87 – 1.99 173 – 238 108 – 119 8.3 61.2 – 63.6
Skin Color Yellow
42 91 – 92 147.0 – 153.7 145.8 – 152.4 1.5 1.88 – 2.00 173 – 238 108 – 119 8.7 61.3 – 63.9
Condition of Droppings Dry
43 90 – 92 153.3 – 160.1 152.0 – 158.7 1.6 1.88 – 2.00 173 – 238 108 – 119 9.1 61.5 – 64.1
*Actual feed consumption may be higher or lower than this range, depending on environmental temperatures. 44 90 – 92 159.6 – 166.5 158.1 – 165.0 1.6 1.88 – 2.00 173 – 238 108 – 119 9.5 61.6 – 64.2
See table on p. 10 for relationship between feed intake and environmental temperature. 45 89 – 91 165.8 – 172.9 164.3 – 171.3 1.7 1.89 – 2.01 171 – 236 107 – 118 9.9 61.6 – 64.2
Performance Summary data is based on results obtained from customers around the world.
1
The chart shows an expected range of waterand feed consumption at normal environmental temperatures of 21–27°C. As the environmental temperature increases above this range, water
consumption may increase up to double the amounts shown.
Please send your results to info@hyline.com. An easy to use record-keeping program, 2
Compared to intensive systems, the feed intake in barn, aviary and free range flocks is generally higher to cover the increased energy demand of more active birds and temperature fluctuations.
Hy-Line International EggCel, can be found at www.hylineeggcel.com. See table on p. 10 for the approximate relationship between feed intake and environmental temperature.
3
Egg weights after 40 weeks of age assume phase feeding of protein to limit egg size.
2 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 3

Performance Table (continued) Chick Management

MORT- WATER HEN- AVERAGE
HEN-DAY HEN-HOUSED ALITY BODY CONSUMP- FEED HOUSED EGG Hy-Line Brown chicks adapt well to both floor and aviary system brooding environments. Hatchery services/treatments are
AGE % HEN-DAY EGGS EGGS Cumulative WEIGHT TION1 INTAKE1,2 EGG MASS WEIGHT3 performed as requested by the customer. For more information, see the “Growing Management of Commercial Pullets”
(weeks) Current Cumulative Cumulative (%) (kg) (ml / bird / day) (g / bird / day) Cumulative (kg) (g / egg) technical update at www.hyline.com.
46 89 – 91 172.1 – 179.3 170.4 – 177.6 1.8 1.89 – 2.01 171 – 236 107 – 118 10.3 61.7 – 64.3
47 88 – 90 178.2 – 185.6 176.4 – 183.7 1.9 1.89 – 2.01 171 – 236 107 – 118 10.6 61.8 – 64.4 General Recommendations
48 88 – 90 184.4 – 191.9 182.5 – 189.9 1.9 1.89 – 2.01 171 – 236 107 – 118 11.0 61.9 – 64.5
HOUSE PREPARATIONS ON THE DAY OF DELIVERY
49 88 – 90 190.5 – 198.2 188.5 – 196.1 2.0 1.89 – 2.01 171 – 236 107 – 118 11.4 62.0 – 64.6
• Clean and disinfect brooding areas, building interior, • Check that house temperatures are appropriate for
50 88 – 89 196.7 – 204.4 194.5 – 202.2 2.1 1.89 – 2.01 171 – 236 107 – 118 11.8 62.1 – 64.7 attached service areas and equipment. brooding chicks.
51 87 – 89 202.8 – 210.6 200.5 – 208.3 2.1 1.89 – 2.01 170 – 234 106 – 117 12.2 62.1 – 64.7 • Check to make sure equipment is working properly and is • As chicks are placed, trigger water cups or nipples to
52 87 – 89 208.9 – 216.9 206.4 – 214.4 2.2 1.89 – 2.01 170 – 234 106 – 117 12.5 62.2 – 64.8 adjusted to the correct height. encourage drinking.
53 87 – 88 215.0 – 223.0 212.4 – 220.4 2.3 1.89 – 2.01 170 – 234 106 – 117 12.9 62.2 – 64.8 • Remove all old feed from bins, hoppers and troughs. • When using nipple drinkers, adjust the water pressure to
• Clean and disinfect feeding system, allowing it to dry ensure there is a droplet of water visible on the nipple.
54 87 – 88 221.1 – 229.2 218.3 – 226.4 2.3 1.89 – 2.01 170 – 234 106 – 117 13.3 62.2 – 64.8
before new feed is delivered. • Place supplementary feed onto papers or trays.
55 86 – 88 227.1 – 235.3 224.2 – 232.4 2.4 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 13.7 62.2 – 64.8
• Place rodent bait where it will not be consumed by chicks. • Adjust feeders to their highest feed level, allowing easy
56 86 – 87 233.1 – 241.4 230.1 – 238.4 2.5 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 14.0 62.3 – 64.9 access for the chicks.
57 85 – 87 239.1 – 247.5 235.9 – 244.3 2.6 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 14.4 62.3 – 64.9 • Lights should be adjusted to provide a minimum light
ONE DAY BEFORE DELIVERY
58 85 – 87 245.0 – 253.6 241.7 – 250.2 2.6 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 14.8 62.3 – 64.9 intensity of 30 lux for the first week.
• Set the brooder thermostat to 35–36°C at chick level.
59 85 – 87 251.0 – 259.7 247.5 – 256.1 2.7 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 15.1 62.4 – 65.0 • Brood chicks in group of similiar aged breeder flocks.
• Check water system and adjust to the correct height for
60 84 – 86 256.8 – 265.7 253.2 – 262.0 2.8 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 15.5 62.4 – 65.0 chicks. Sanitize and flush water lines.
61 84 – 86 262.7 – 271.7 258.9 – 267.8 2.9 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 15.9 62.5 – 65.1
62 83 – 86 268.5 – 277.8 264.5 – 273.7 2.9 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 16.2 62.5 – 65.1
63
64
83 – 85
83 – 85
274.3 – 283.7
280.1 – 289.7
270.1 – 279.4
275.8 – 285.2
3.0
3.1
1.90 – 2.02
1.90 – 2.02
170 – 234
170 – 234
106 – 117
106 – 117
16.6
16.9
62.6 – 65.2
62.6 – 65.2
Infrared Beak Treatment (IRBT)
(Check local regulations concerning use of beak treatment)
65 83 – 85 286.0 – 295.6 281.4 – 291.0 3.2 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 17.3 62.7 – 65.3
66 82 – 84 291.7 – 301.5 286.9 – 296.6 3.3 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 17.7 62.7 – 65.3 • Infrared beak treatment has been proven a successful, non-invasive method of
controlling the growth of the beak in egg type chickens.
67 81 – 84 297.4 – 307.4 292.4 – 302.3 3.4 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 18.0 62.8 – 65.4
• One properly applied IRBT should be sufficient.
68 81 – 83 303.0 – 313.2 297.9 – 307.9 3.5 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 18.4 62.8 – 65.4
• Hatchery beak treatment reduces feed wastage and leaves the beak less
69 81 – 82 308.7 – 318.9 303.3 – 313.4 3.7 1.90 – 2.02 170 – 234 106 – 117 18.7 62.9 – 65.5 damaging to other birds.
70 80 – 82 314.3 – 324.7 308.7 – 319.0 3.8 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 19.1 62.9 – 65.5 • Hatchery beak treatment is efficient and uniform.
71 79 – 81 319.8 – 330.3 314.0 – 324.4 3.9 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 19.4 63.0 – 65.6 • Beak remains intact until 10–14 days of age when treated portion separates.
72 79 – 81 325.4 – 336.0 319.3 – 329.9 4.0 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 19.7 63.0 – 65.6 • Infrared treatment is adjustable to manage differences in breeder flock age, chick
size and variety of birds. Infrared beak treatment can be
73 78 – 80 330.8 – 341.6 324.6 – 335.2 4.1 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 20.1 63.1 – 65.7 modified according to local conditions.
74 77 – 80 336.2 – 347.2 329.7 – 340.6 4.3 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 20.4 63.1 – 65.7 • For more information, see the “Infrared Beak Treatment” technical update at
www.hyline.com.
75 76 – 79 341.5 – 352.7 334.8 – 345.9 4.4 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 20.7 63.2 – 65.8
76 76 – 78 346.9 – 358.2 339.9 – 351.1 4.5 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 21.1 63.2 – 65.8
77 75 – 77 352.1 – 363.6 344.9 – 356.2 4.7 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 21.4 63.3 – 65.9 Precautions when performing beak treatment:
78 75 – 77 357.4 – 369.0 349.9 – 361.3 4.8 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 21.7 63.3 – 65.9 • Water intake is the most important factor for success with IRBT chicks. Chicks
require immediate and easy access to water.
79 74 – 77 362.5 – 374.4 354.8 – 366.5 5.0 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 22.0 63.4 – 66.0
• Use only 360° activated nipples for IRBT chicks, as well as supplemental chick
80 74 – 76 367.7 – 379.7 359.7 – 371.5 5.1 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 22.4 63.5 – 66.1 drinkers.
81 74 – 76 372.9 – 385.0 364.6 – 376.5 5.3 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 22.7 63.5 – 66.1 • Nipple drinkers with splash cups provide additional support for IRBT chicks.
82 74 – 76 378.1 – 390.3 369.5 – 381.6 5.4 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 23.0 63.5 – 66.1 • Keep feed at the highest level for several days after beak treatment.
83 73 – 75 383.2 – 395.6 374.4 – 386.5 5.6 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 23.3 63.6 – 66.2 • Feed on paper for 0–7 days. Immediately following infrared beak
treatment on day of hatch
84 73 – 75 388.3 – 400.8 379.2 – 391.5 5.7 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 23.6 63.6 – 66.2 • Provide extra light on nipple drinkers after beak treatment.
85 73 – 75 393.4 – 406.1 384.0 – 396.4 5.9 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 23.9 63.6 – 66.2
86 73 – 75 398.5 – 411.3 388.8 – 401.4 6.0 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 24.2 63.6 – 66.2
87 72 – 74 403.6 – 416.5 393.5 – 406.2 6.2 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 24.5 63.7 – 66.3
88 72 – 74 408.6 – 421.7 398.2 – 411.1 6.3 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 24.9 63.7 – 66.3
89 72 – 74 413.6 – 426.9 402.9 – 415.9 6.5 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 25.2 63.7 – 66.3
90 72 – 74 418.7 – 432.0 407.7 – 420.7 6.6 1.91 – 2.03 170 – 234 106 – 117 25.5 63.7 – 66.3
1
The chart shows an expected range of water and feed consumption at normal environmental temperatures of 21–27°C. As the environmental temperature increases above this range, water
consumption may increase up to double the amounts shown.
2
Compared to intensive systems, the feed intake in barn, aviary and free range flocks is generally higher to cover the increased energy demand of more active birds and temperature fluctuations.
See table on p. 10 for the approximate relationship between feed intake and environmental temperature. 7 days after infrared beak treatment
3
Egg weights after 40 weeks of age assume phase feeding of protein to limit egg size.

60%
relative
humidity
Brooding
Chick
comfort
zone
Recommendations
Chick
comfort
zone
CORRECT HOT Brooding Recommendations (continued)
BROODER Chicks evenly distributed in Chicks spread out, lethargic;
The brooding period (0–14 days) of the pullet’s life is critical. Good management during this period can assure that the
brooding area, active and appear sleeping BROODING TEMPERATURE
pullet reaches her genetic potential.35°C (edge of sounding content
brooder)
0.5 m • Find optimum balance of temperature, humidity and
60%
DESIGN FOR RING AND 33°C PARTIAL HOUSE BROODING SYSTEMS ventilation rate for chick comfort.
relative
1m humidity
• Adjust brooder temperatures according to relative
Water 30°C Management: Barn Systems
humidity. Lower temperatures should be used with
• Drinking water should be tested for quality and • Enlarge brooder rings at 3 days to increase group size. higher humidity. For every 5 percentage point increase
cleanliness from source and end of the water line. • Continue enlarging brooder rings until rings are removed above 60% relative humidity, reduce brooding
Chick Chick
• Flush water lines prior to2chick
m arrival. by 14 days. comfort
temperature 1°C. comfort CORRECT HOT
• Do not give cold water to chicks. Be30°C
careful when flushing • Gradually remove supplemental drinkers and tray feeders zone BROODER zone
• Provide temperature zones within the brooding ring Chicks evenly distributed in Chicks spread out, lethargic;
water lines
5m fordiameter
chicks. Allow
(areawater
= 19.6time
m2) to warm up in the beginning at 3 days. brooding area, active and appear sleeping
accessible to the chicks. This allows them to seek
of their
house so chicks are comfortable drinking.
comfort zone. 35°C (edge
brooder) sounding content
• Maintain water temperature of 20–25°C during brooding Management:
COLD Aviary Systems UNEVEN VENTILATION 0.5 m
period. Chicks gathered
• In into groups
aviary systems, Chicks
the chicks congregated
are generally in one
brooded forpart • After the first week, reduce temperature
33°Cweekly 2–3°C
sounding distressed
0–10 days confined within theofsystem.
brooding area,
After 10 avoiding
days, the until reaching 21°C. 1m
• Bright light (30–50 lux) during 0–7 days helps chicks find
feed and water and adapt to the house environment. chickens are given access todrafts, noise
the floor andorother
uneven light
levels of • Cloacal temperature of the chicks should
30°C be 40°C.
the aviary system. Confined chicks mustdistribution
have access to a
• Clean supplemental chick drinkers daily to avoid build-up
littered area.
of organic matter that could encourage bacterial growth.
• Use a ratio of 80 chicks / drinker (25 cm diameter).
• Introduce chicks to the entire aviary system as soon as
possible.
Relative 2m
• Chicks should not have to move more than 1 meter to
find water. humidity 5 m diameter
60% 30°C
(areaHATCHING
relative = 19.6 m2)
• Use vitamins and electrolytes in chicks’ water humidity 80%
Automatic COLD UNEVEN VENTILATION
(avoid sugar-based products to prevent growth of feeders
microorganisms). Chicks gathered into groups Chicks congregated in one part
sounding distressed of brooding area, avoiding
Chick Chick drafts, noise or uneven light
Paper comfort comfort
TRANSPORTATION CORRECT HOT
distribution
zone zone
• Cover entire floor of brooder ring with paper. In partial TO FARM BROODER Chicks evenly distributed in Chicks spread out, lethargic;
house brooding, feed off of paper placed close to the
permanent feeders. 70% 35°C (edge of CROP FILL –
brooding area, active and
sounding content
appear sleeping
brooder)
• Place starter feed on paper for 0–3 days. For beak-treated 0.5 m
BROODING ARE THE CHICKS EATING?
chicks, feed on paper for 0–7 days. BROODER PERIOD33°C
• Remove paper at 7–14 days to avoid the buildup of (0–7
1 m days) Hours after Chicks
Automatic
manure.
GROWING 60%30°C chick
feeders with feed
• Litter should not be more than 5 cm deep.
40% placement in crop
minimum
Tray feeders 2m
6 75%
• Use a ratio of 80 chicks / feeder. 30°C
• Use good quality crumble starter feed consisting of Automatic 5 m diameterLAYING
(area = 19.6 m2) 12 85% Chick with Chick without
uniform 1–2 mm particles. drinkers 40% starter feed starter feed
INTERMITTENT LIGHTING
minimum
24COLD UNEVEN
100% in crop VENTILATION
in crop
Partial House (Floor) Brooding PROGRAM FOR CHICKS Chicks gathered into groups BROODER
Chicks congregated in one part
5 m diameter (area = 19.6 m2) sounding distressed of brooding area,
• A section of the house is partitioned and used for Brooding temperatures that are too low or too high will avoiding
drafts,
decrease the percentage of chicks with crop noise
fill. or uneven light
brooding. 2 hours distribution
• Twenty-four hours prior to chick delivery, set thermostats Tray feeders Supplemental chick drinkers 4 hours 4 hours
placed at chick level at 35–36°C.
• Minimum house air temperature during floor brooding is
30°C. 2 hours 2 hours
Automatic
• Ensure supplementary drinkers are used where drinkers
4 hours 4 hours Automatic
necessary. Keep water clean at all times. feeders
• Eliminate all drafts from the house. 2 hours 5 m diameter (area = 19.6 m2)
• Always be mindful of chick behavior when setting
temperatures. Different humidity levels will provide
differing comfort levels to the chicks. Tray feeders Supplemental chick drinkers
• Spread litter after concrete floors have warmed. • Preferred lighting technique
• Use from 0–7 days (can be used up to 14 days)
• Intermittent dark periods provide rest periods for chicks BROODER
• Synchronizes chicks’ activities and feedings
• Establishes more natural pattern of rest and activity
• May improve 7 day livability and pullet body weight Rope lights can provide uniform lighting to brooding
• May improve antibody response from vaccinations sections in aviary systems. Photo courtesy Big Dutchman.
Use ramps to assist birds onto higher levels of the aviary.
Flocks that learn at an early age to use the entire system • Some dark periods may be shortened or removed to
accommodate work schedules Automatic
perform best. Photo courtesy Big Dutchman.
drinkers
2
Partial House Brooding Growth and Development

(A section of rearing house is partitioned and used for brooding)
AGE 0–3 days
AIR TEMP. 35–36°C 4–7 days

(FLOOR)
LIGHT 30–50 lux 33–35°C 8–14 days
INTENSITY
22 hours or
LIGHT 30–50 lux 31–33°C 15–21 days
HOURS Intermittent
Program 21 hours or
25 lux 29–31°C 22–28 days
Intermittent
Program
19 hours or 25 lux 26–27°C 29–35 days
Intermittent
Relative Program 17.5 hours 25 lux 23–25°C 36–42 days
humidity HATCHING
Low humidity
16 hours 10–15 lux 21°C
80%
• Reduces bird comfort 14.5 hours 10–15 lux
• Increases dehydration
• May result in pasty 13 hours
TRANSPORTATION vents in chicks
TO FARM • May increase agitation
70% CROP
and possibility FILL –Rearing Recommendations
of pecking
BROODING • AdverselyARE
affectsTHEfeather CHICKS EATING?
• Check water availability and raise drinkers
PERIOD cover as the birds grow (nipples should be higher
(0–7 days) Hours after
• Increases dust
Chicks
than the birds’ heads, cups should be level
GROWING 60% chick withwith
feedtheir backs).
40% placement in• crop
Plan and follow a vaccination schedule
Excessive humidity
minimum specific to your area.
6
• Increases ammonia 75%
• Greater than 50% of the floor area should be
• Causes poor litter and air
LAYING 12 littered. Chick with Chick without
85%
quality
40% starter
• Remove and feed dead
record starter feed
birds daily and
minimum
24 100% in crop Perform
dispose of properly. in crop
post-mortem
examinations if mortality exceeds the
Rearing Space Recommendations performance target to determine the causes
(check local regulations concerning space requirements) of excessive mortality.
Useable space is calculated as litter floor and • Ensure target body weights are achieved
by weekly check weighing. Weigh 60–100
raised slatted areas, not including nest space or Week of
perch space. If the veranda (winter porch) floor Birds/m2 pullets to obtain an average weight.
Transfer
space is used as useable space, then the birds
15 15
Partial house brooding provides uniform temperature to chicks must be able to access this area at all times.
16 14
Rearing density depends on age of transfer to 17 13
the laying house. Use the approximation at right. 18 12
MULTI-TIER FLOOR
< 20 kg live weight per m of useable space at 16 weeks
2
20 kg live weight per m2 floor space at
Floor space when transferred to the laying facility. Adjust stocking end of rearing period
CORRECT HOT COLD UNEVEN VENTILATION density if birds are transferred at other ages.
Chicks evenly distributed in Chicks spread out, lethargic; Chicks gathered into groups Chicks congregated in 2.5 cm/bird with access on both sides; 5 cm/bird with side 5 cm per bird, single side minimum
brooding area, active and appear sleeping sounding distressed one part of brooding area, Feeder space
access; 2.0 cm/bird with circular feeders 2 cm of circular feeding space/bird
sounding content avoiding drafts, noise or
Drinking systems, 12.5 birds per cup or nipple drinker
uneven light d
istribution same as floor space
cups or nipples 125 birds per bell drinker
Perch space 10–15 cm/bird 10–15 cm/bird

Growth and Development (continued) Rearing Body Weights and Uniformity

• Pullet flocks that enter into egg production at the correct • Change rearing diets only when recommended body CUMULATIVE Weigh 100 birds weekly to
FEED WATER 30 weeks of age
body weight (1.57–1.67 kg) with uniformities higher than weight is attained. AGE BODY FEED
CONSUMPTION CONSUMPTION
85% perform best in the production period. • Delay diet change if birds are underweight or have poor (weeks) WEIGHT* (g) CONSUMPTION UNIFORMITY
(g / bird / day) (ml / bird / day)
• The design of the rearing facility should closely match that uniformity. (g / bird)
of the layer house to which the flock will be transferred. 1 70 – 75 14 – 15 98 – 105 22 – 30
• By 12 weeks of age, match the feeding schedule to be used
Drinker and feeder type and perching should match. This 2 110 – 125 17 – 21 217 – 252 27 – 42
in the layer house.
makes the transition of the birds from rearing to laying 3 170 – 190 23 – 25 378 – 427 37 – 50
• During the rearing period, run feeders 3–5 times per day.
easy and stress-free. 4 240 – 270 28 – 30 574 – 637 43 – 58
Feed more frequently to encourage intake in underweight
• Chicks’ body weight should double between arrival and flocks or in hot weather. Manage feeders so that additional 5 330 – 360 34 – 36 812 – 889 54 – 72 65–70%
7 days of age. feedings do not create excessive fine feed particles. 6 420 – 465 38 – 40 1078 – 1169 61 – 80
• It is important to achieve 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 week • Anticipate a rapid rise in ambient temperature and adjust 7 520 – 560 42 – 44 1372 – 1477 66 – 86
body weight targets to ensure optimum development birds’ diet accordingly. Birds will eat less when exposed to 8 620 – 670 53 – 57 1743 – 1876 72 – 94
of the bird’s body. a rapid temperature increase. 9 730 – 780 55 – 59 2128 – 2289 78 – 106
• If possible, exceed pullet body weight standards • Stress periods require a change in diet formulation to 10 840 – 890 58 – 62 2534 – 2723 83 – 112
throughout rear. ensure proper nutrient intake. Delay diet changes until 11 940 – 990 62 – 65 2968 – 3178 93 – 124
70–75%
• Use a crumble starter feed to promote good feed intake. after a stress-inducing event, such as catching birds for an 12 1030 – 1080 65 – 69 3423 – 3661 99 – 136
injected vaccination. 13 1110 – 1165 69 – 72 3906 – 4165 107 – 142
14 1190 – 1230 74 – 78 4424 – 4711 112 – 148
80%
15 1260 – 1300 76 – 80 4956 – 5271 115 – 152
16 1330 – 1370 78 – 82 5502 – 5845 120 – 158 Weigh birds separately after
85% 3 weeks using a digital scale
17 1400 – 1440 79 – 83 6055 – 6426 125 – 164
that calculates uniformity.
*During the transfer of birds from growing to laying facilities there will be some loss of
body weight.
1 week 3 weeks 6 weeks 12 weeks 18 weeks 24 weeks 30 weeks
Monitoring Body Weights Approximate Relationship between Feed
WEEKS OF AGE Consumption and Environmental Temperature
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 • Body weights should be monitored weekly up to 30 135
weeks of age and thereafter every five weeks.
1st 2nd 3rd
SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
MOLT MOLT MOLT • Weigh birds individually, using a scale with increments
no larger than 20 g. 130
Ovary Reproductive Tract
• A minimum of 60 birds should be weighed. In order to
Immune &
Digestive Systems get the best representative sample, all birds penned 125
Muscles Fat Cells
should be weighed.
Cortical Bone / Skeletal Growth Medullary Bone • Always weigh birds at the same time of day. 120
Skeletal frame Sexual maturity – Physical maturity • Weighing birds at frequent intervals will identify when
FEED INTAKE (g/bird/day)

developed reddening of comb and wattles the flocks is deviating from the body weight standard,
115
2400 120 thus enabling corrective action to be taken.
• It is critical to weigh birds prior to a scheduled feed
change. If a flock is below target for body weight, it 110
2000 100
WEEKLY WEIGHT GAIN (g) should remain on a high nutrient density diet until the
BODY WEIGHT (g)
Body weight (g) 80 target weight is reached. 105

1600
• Factors that can adversely affect body weight include chick
1200 60 and pullet quality, environment, inadequate nutrition,
100
water quality and intake, overcrowding and disease.
800 40 Uniformity
95
• In addition to body weight averages, the uniformity of 132 126 120 114 108 102
400 20 the body weights within the flock is an indicator of flock
Approximate 90
weekly weight gain (g) development.
0 0 • Ideally prior to point of lay, flocks should have a
85
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 minimum uniformity of 85%. 10 15 20 25 30 35
WEEKS OF AGE • Uniformity of body ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURE (°C)
weights makes CALCULATING UNIFORMITY
IDEAL accurate feeding and • Use individual bird weights.
BREAST For every 1°C change in ambient temperature, there is an
MUSCLE 1–2 2 2–3 3 management of the • Uniformity calculation tool is approximate change of 1.2 grams of feed consumption. For
SCORE flock easier. available at example, if temperature is reduced from 21°C to 15°C, feed
• Body weight gains www.hylinebodyweight.com. intake may increase by 7.2 grams/bird per day.
BREAST MUSCLE SCORING and uniformity may be
Layers with good muscle negatively affected by
development are better able to bird handling, vaccination and transfer.
sustain high egg production. • Using multiple hatch dates, causing a range of chick ages,
0 1 2 3
will negatively affect uniformity.

Uniformity (continued) Rearing Period Nutritional Recommendations

Generally there are two ways of expressing uniformity. The The second way of expressing uniformity is the percentage
first method is the coefficient of variation (CV). of birds within +/- 10% of the average weight. FEEDING PHASE1 STARTER 1 STARTER 2 GROWER DEVELOPER PRE-LAY2
• A desirable goal is for 80% of birds to fall within ±10% CHANGE DIET AT A 180 g 444 g 1055 g 1280 g 1420 g
BODY WEIGHT OF
of the average weight. For example, if a flock average
% CV = Weight Range x 100 1600 120
weight at 18 weeks is 1470 g, 80% of all birds should
weigh between 1323 g and 1617 g.
Average Weight x F value • While this method gives an accurate indication of the 1400 105
FEED CONSUMPTION (g / day per bird)

number of birds close to the given weight, it does not
(unlike CV%) take into account very light and heavy birds. 90
F value is a constant based on the sample size (see table 1200
below). Weight range is the difference between the lightest • One method of calculation should be used consistently
throughout the rearing period, because the numerical
BODY WEIGHT (g)

and the heaviest bird. 1000 75
result obtained will differ slightly depending on the
method used.
Approximate Relationship 800 60
between CV% and Uniformity
Body weight (g)
Feed consumption (g / day per bird)
CV% Uniformity Sample Size F Value 600 45
(+/- 10% of average) 30 4.09
5 95.4 40 4.30 30
400
6 90.4 50 4.50
7 84.7 60 4.65 200 15
8 78.8 80 4.87
9 73.3 100 5.02 0 0
10 68.3 WEEKS OF AGE 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
3-week old pullets from the
11 63.7 same flock with very different Change diet based on body weight
12 58.2 development show the
NUTRITION RECOMMENDED NUTRIENT CONCENTRATION
importance of monitoring flock
13 55.8
body weight uniformity. Metabolizable energy , kcal/kg
3
2867–3043 2867–3043 2800–3021 2734–3021 2778–2999
14 52.0 Metabolizable energy3, MJ/kg 12.00–12.74 12.00–12.74 11.72–12.64 11.44–12.64 11.63–12.55
15 49.5
Standardized Ileal Digestible Amino Acids / Total Amino Acids4
16 46.8
Lysine, % 1.01 / 1.11 0.92 / 1.01 0.82 / 0.90 0.67 / 0.73 0.72 / 0.79
Methionine, % 0.45 / 0.49 0.42 / 0.46 0.39 / 0.41 0.31 / 0.34 0.35 / 0.38
Normal Distribution of Body Weights Methionine+Cystine, % 0.77 / 0.87 0.72 / 0.81 0.66 / 0.75 0.56 / 0.63 0.62 / 0.70
Record individual body weights to ensure a bell-shaped or “normal” distribution. Threonine, % 0.65 / 0.76 0.60 / 0.70 0.55 / 0.65 0.46 / 0.54 0.50 / 0.58
Tryptophan, % 0.18 / 0.22 0.17 / 0.21 0.17 / 0.21 0.15 / 0.18 0.16 / 0.19
Arginine, % 1.05 / 1.13 0.96 / 1.03 0.85 / 0.92 0.70 / 0.75 0.75 / 0.81
Isoleucine, % 0.71 / 0.76 0.66 / 0.71 0.61 / 0.65 0.50 / 0.54 0.56 / 0.60
Valine, % 0.73 / 0.80 0.68 / 0.75 0.64 / 0.71 0.54 / 0.59 0.61 / 0.68
Crude protein5, % 20.00 18.25 17.50 16.00 16.50

Calcium6, % 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.50
Phosphorus (available)7, % 0.45 0.44 0.43 0.45 0.48
Sodium, % 0.18 0.17 0.17 0.18 0.18
Chloride, % 0.18 0.17 0.17 0.18 0.18
Linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), % 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
1
Body weights are approximate. Ages shown are a guide only. Please note that at time of transfer, there will be some loss in body
weight (normally 10–12%) due to reduced water intake.
2
Do not feed Pre-Lay Diet earlier than 15 weeks of age. Do not feed Pre-Lay later than first egg as it contains insufficient calcium to
support egg production.
3
Recommended energy range is based on raw material energy values shown in feed ingredient table at back of this guide. It is
important that target concentrations of dietary energy are adjusted according to energy system applied to raw material matrix.
4
Recommendation for Total Amino Acids is only appropriate to corn and soybean meal diet. Where diets utilize other ingredients,
recommendations for Standardized Ileal Digestible Amino Acids must be followed.
5
Diets should always be formulated to provide required intake of amino acid. Concentration of crude protein in diet will vary with raw
material used. Crude protein value provided is an estimated typical value only.
6
Calcium should be supplied as fine calcium carbonate (mean particle size less than 2 mm). Coarse limestone (2–4 mm)
can be introduced in Pre-Lay Diet at up to 50% of total limestone.
7
Where other phosphorus systems are used, diets should contain recommended minimum level of available phosphorus.

Good Lighting Practices Customized Lighting Programs for

• In aviary systems, dimming lights gradually to simulate
sunset will encourage birds to roost on the upper level.
• Take local conditions into account which may require
adaptations of lighting programs.
Open-Sided Housing (www.hylineweblighting.com)
• Turn off lights on the floor level, followed by the middle • Light hours of rearing and production houses should be The Hy-Line International Lighting Program can create custom lighting programs for your location. To prevent early sexual
level and finally the top level to allow hens to move up matched at transfer. development, the program finds the longest natural day length between 8–17 weeks of age and constructs an artificial
within the system to roost on the upper level at night. lighting program that holds day length constant with artificial lights from 8–17 weeks.
• Light stimulation period should extend into the peaking
• Do not place lights on the upper level, to encourage period (achieve 16 hours of light at approximately 30 Free range flocks should use lighting programs designed for open housing. It is important that lights are on in the house
roosting at night. weeks). when birds are returning from pasture. Birds will not return to a dark house.
• Verandas (winter porches) should be equipped with lights. • Light intensity should increase weekly for 2 weeks before
• Keep light bulbs and bulb covers clean to prevent loss of flock is transferred to the laying house (but not prior to 14
light intensity. weeks of age).
• Prevent dark areas in the house which are caused by too • Free range flocks should use lighting programs designed • On the first screen—enter e-mail address
much distance between lights or burned-out light bulbs. for open housing. It is important that lights are on in the and select language.
house when birds are returning from pasture. Birds will • On the second screen, use dropdowns for
• Shiny or white surfaces reflect light and increase light
not return to a dark house. “Select Location of Flock”, “Hatch Date”,
intensity.
“Variety Standards” and “Housing Style.”
Light Program for Light-Controlled Housing • Click on “Create Lighting Spreadsheet.”

• Results will be e-mailed to you.
(www.hylineweblighting.com)
Use a slow step-down lighting program for 0–8 weeks to increase the feed intake during the rearing period to optimize
Lighting Program for : IOWA / DALLAS CENTER 93° 56' W 41° 43' N
pullet flock growth and uniformity.
Variety: Brown Commercial * Hours of constant light in lay after step-up : 16.5
House Type: Open grow to open lay
24 24 Hatch Date: 01-Sep-16 Standard daylight time
23 off 23 Total Hours of
22 Gradual light increases up to 30 weeks of age 22

Weeks of Age Date Sunrise Lights on Lights Off Sunset Light Total Sunlight
0 1-Sep-16 5:42 1:30 22:30 18:48 21:00 13:06
1 8-Sep-16 5:49 2:00 22:00 18:36 20:00 12:47
21 21 2 15-Sep-16 5:56 2:30 21:30 18:24 19:00 12:28
3 22-Sep-16 6:03 3:00 21:00 18:12 18:00 12:09
20 on 20 4 29-Sep-16 6:11 3:30 20:30 17:59 17:00 11:48
5 6-Oct-16 6:18 4:00 20:00 17:48 16:00 11:30
19 19 6
7
13-Oct-16
20-Oct-16
6:26
6:34
4:30
5:00
19:30
19:00
17:36
17:25
15:00
14:00
11:10
10:51
18 18 8
9
27-Oct-16
3-Nov-16
6:42
6:50
5:30
6:00
18:30
18:00
17:15
17:07
13:00
12:00
10:33
10:17
17 off 17 10
11
10-Nov-16
17-Nov-16
6:59
7:08
6:30
6:45
17:30
17:15
16:59
16:53
11:00
10:30
10:00
9:45
16 16 12
13
24-Nov-16
1-Dec-16
7:16
7:23
6:45
6:45
17:15
17:15
16:48
16:45
10:30
10:30
9:32
9:22
15 15
TIME OF DAY
14 8-Dec-16 7:30 6:45 17:15 16:45 10:30 9:15

15 15-Dec-16 7:36 6:45 17:15 16:46 10:30 9:10
14 on 14 16
17
22-Dec-16
29-Dec-16
7:40
7:42
6:45
6:15
17:15
17:45
16:49
16:53
10:30
11:30
9:09
9:11
13 13 18
19
5-Jan-17
12-Jan-17
7:42
7:41
6:00
5:45
18:00
18:15
16:59
17:07
12:00
12:30
9:17
9:26
12 19 17½ 16 14½ 13 11½ 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11 12 13 13½ 13¾ 14 14¼ 14½ 14¾ 15 15¼ 15½ 15¾ 12 20 19-Jan-17 7:38 5:45 18:30 17:15 12:45 9:37
21 26-Jan-17 7:33 5:30 18:30 17:24 13:00 9:51
11 off HOURS OF LIGHT 11 22 2-Feb-17 7:26 5:30 18:45 17:32 13:15 10:06
23 9-Feb-17 7:18 5:15 18:45 17:41 13:30 10:23
10 10 24
25
16-Feb-17
23-Feb-17
7:09
6:59
5:15
5:00
19:00
19:00
17:50
17:59
13:45
14:00
10:41
11:00
9 9 26
27
2-Mar-17
9-Mar-17
6:48
6:37
5:00
4:45
19:15
19:15
18:07
18:15
14:15
14:30
11:19
11:38
8 on 8 28
29
16-Mar-17
23-Mar-17
6:25
6:13
4:45
4:30
19:30
19:30
18:23
18:31
14:45
15:00
11:58
12:18
30 30-Mar-17 6:01 4:30 19:45 18:39 15:15 12:38
7 7 Same lighting program with sunrise and 31 6-Apr-17 5:49 4:15 19:45 18:46 15:30 12:57
32 13-Apr-17 5:38 4:15 20:00 18:54 15:45 13:16
6 6 sunset represented by yellow and red lines and 33 20-Apr-17 5:27 4:00 20:00 19:02 16:00 13:35
34 27-Apr-17 5:17 4:00 20:15 19:09 16:15 13:52
5 off 5 suggested artificial day length indicated by blue 35 4-May-17 5:08 3:45 20:15 19:17 16:30 14:09
36+ 3:45 20:15 16:30
4 4 bars This lighting program is created from a formula based on global location and housing style. This program may need to be further adapted to
Light stimulation at Ideal
3 Body Weight (1.40–1.44 kg) 16 hrs. 3 better fit local conditions. Please email info@hyline.com for further questions or technical assistance.
2 Transfer flock to 2
Hy-Line Lighting Program Brown Commercial Open grow to open lay Hatch Date: 01-Sep-16
on to end
laying house of lay 24:00
1 1 23:00
O
f
Sunrise Sunset Total Hours of Light
0 0 f
21:00
22:00
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
20:00
21:00
WEEKS OF AGE O
19:00
20:00 n
18:00
19:00
17:00
18:00
16:30
16:30
O
16:15
LIGHT INTENSITY
16:00
16:00
17:00 f
15:45
15:30
f
15:15
15:00
15:00
16:00
14:45
14:30
20-25
14:15
30-50
14:00
14:00
15:00
13:45
25 lux 5-15 lux 30 lux
13:30
13:15
lux lux
O
13:00
13:00
14:00
12:45
n
12:30
Time of day (hours)
12:00
12:00
13:00
11:30
11:00
12:00
• An intermittent lighting program is preferred. If not using an intermittent lighting program from 0–7 days, then use 22
10:30
10:30
10:30
10:30
10:30
10:30
O
11:00 f
hours of light from 0–3 days and 21 hours of light from 4–7 days. 10:00
f
• “Lights on” time can be varied between houses in laying flocks to facilitate egg collection on multiple flock complexes. 9:00
O
8:00
• If the laying flock has a large spread in hatch ages and/or poor uniformity, light stimulate the flock based on the youngest n
7:00
hatch date or lightest birds. 6:00
• Use “warm” lights (2700–3500 K) in laying flocks to ensure sufficient red spectrum light. 5:00
O
f
f
• For more information on poultry lighting, see the “Understanding Poultry Lighting” and “Impact of Tarp Color on Poultry 4:00
3:00
Lighting” technical updates at www.hyline.com. 2:00
O
n
1:00
Age (weeks)
0:00
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36+
1-Sep-16 29-Sep-16 27-Oct-16 24-Nov-16 22-Dec-16 19-Jan-17 16-Feb-17 16-Mar-17 13-Apr-17

Drinking Systems Water Quality

The type of drinkers used during rearing should be the same as the ones used in the layer house. Also, use the same nipple • Good quality water must be available to birds at all times. • The presence of coliform bacteria is an indicator that
type in the rearing house and the laying house (vertical versus 360° activated nipples). • Water and feed consumption are directly related—when the water source has been contaminated with animal or
birds drink less, they consume less feed, and production human waste.
• Drinking water should be tested for quality and cleanliness • Record daily flock water consumption. A drop in water
quickly declines. • When collecting a well water sample, let the water run for
from source and end of the water line. consumption is often the earliest indication of a serious
• As a general rule, healthy birds will consume 1.5–2.0 2 minutes prior to collecting the sample. Water samples
• Water should be kept fresh and clean. Ensure that palatable problem in the flock.
times more water than feed. This ratio increases in high should be kept below 10°C and submitted to the lab in
water is provided for the birds at all times. • Regular water treatment is recommended. less than 24 hours.
ambient temperatures.
• Keep the water fresh and clean by flushing water lines • Ensure the pasture has good drainage—no puddles for • Some water sources contain high levels of dissolved
• High concentrations of sodium or other minerals may
weekly during rearing and production periods. Clean and birds to access dirty water. minerals such as calcium, sodium and magnesium. When
require changes in ration formulation.
flush water lines during the night, before lights come on in this occurs, amounts of these minerals in water have to
• In aviary systems, the water lines should be in front of • Test water quality at least 1 time per year. The water
the morning. nests. Additional water lines can be on levels below the be considered when formulating feed.
source will determine the regularity of water testing.
nest level. Avoid using water lines above the nest level. • Preferable drinking water temperature for chicks is
– Surface water requires more frequent testing, as it is
20–25°C and for layers is 15–20°C.
more affected by season and rainfall patterns.
Cup or bell drinkers Nipple drinkers – Closed wells taking water from aquifers or deep
• Ideal water pH is 5–7 to promote good water sanitation,
increase feed consumption and improve upper
artesian basins will be more consistent in water quality,
gastrointestinal health.
Nipple level but are generally higher in dissolved mineral content.
with chick’s head • Less than optimum water quality can have a significant
360° impact on gut health, which will lead to under utilization
Cup level with of nutrients in feed.
chick’s back
MAXIMUM
CONCENTRATION
ITEM (ppm or mg/L)*
Older birds will tolerate higher levels up to 20 ppm. Stressed or diseased challenged
Nitrate NO3ˉ 1 25
birds may be more sensitive to effects of Nitrate.
Nitrate Nitrogen (NO3-N) 1 6
Nitrite is considerably more toxic than Nitrate, especially for young birds, where
Nitrite NO2 - 1
4
1 ppm Nitrite may be considered toxic.
Nitrite Nitrogen (NO2-N ) 1 1
Levels up to 3000 ppm may not affect performance but could increase manure
Total dissolved solids 2
1000
moisture.
• Cup drinkers should be manually filled during 0–3 days to • Nipple drinking systems are preferred because they are Chloride (Cl -) 1
250 Levels as low as 14 mg may be problematic if sodium is higher than 50 ppm.
train chicks to drink. closed and thus more sanitary. Sulfate (SO4 ) - 1
250 Higher levels may be laxative.
• Open drinkers (bell, supplemental chick drinkers, trough) are • Adjust nipple water system pressure to create hanging Iron (Fe) 1 <0.3 Higher levels result in bad odor and taste.
easily contaminated and should be cleaned daily. drop to help chicks find water for 0–3 days and in layer Higher levels may be laxative. Levels above 50 ppm may be problematic if sulphate
Magnesium (Mg) 1 125
house at transfer for 3 days. levels are high.
Potassium (K) 2
20 Higher levels may be acceptable depending on sodium level, alkalinity and pH.
• Splash cups are useful during brooding period and in hot
Higher concentration is acceptable but concentrations above 50 ppm should be
climates. Sodium (Na) 1,2
50
avoided if high levels of chloride, sulphate or potassium exist.
• 360° activated nipples make drinking easy for chicks. Manganese (Mn) 3
0.05 Higher levels may be laxative.
• Use only 360° activated nipples for hatchery beak-treated
Air Quality
Arsenic (As) 2 0.5
chicks, as well as supplemental chick drinkers.
Fluoride (F ) - 2
2
• Nipple drinkers should deliver a minimum 60 ml per
• Production house should be at 18–25°C and 40–60% Aluminum (Al) 2 5
minute / nipple in layers.
humidity. Boron (B) 2 5
• The general rule for determining required fan capacity— Cadmium (Cd) 2
0.02
4 m3 of air movement / kilogram of body weight per hour. Air Movement (m3 / hour per 1000 birds) Cobalt (Co) 2 1
• Ventilation is essential to: WEEKS OF AGE Copper (Cu) 1
0.6 Higher levels result in bitter taste.
AMBIENT
– Remove moisture from house TEMP. 1 3 6 12 18 19+ Lead (Pb) 1 0.02 Higher levels are toxic.
– Provide each bird with an adequate supply of oxygen (°C) Mercury (Hg) 2
0.003 Higher levels are toxic.
– Remove carbon dioxide produced by birds 32 360 540 1250 3000 7140 9340–12000 Zinc (Zn) 1 1.5 Higher levels are toxic.
– Remove dust particles 21 180 270 630 1500 3050 5100–6800 Birds may adapt to lower pH. Below pH 5 may reduce water intake and corrode metal
pH 1 6.3–7.5
– Dilute aerosolized pathogenic organisms fittings. Above pH 8 may reduce intake and reduce effectiveness of water sanitation.
10 130 180 420 800 2240 3060–4250 Total bacteria counts 3
1000 CFU/ml This is likely to indicate dirty water.
• Positive pressure houses where exhaust air is exiting
through vents and popholes prevents cold damp air in 0 75 136 289 540 1500 1020–1700 Total Coliform bacteria 3
50 CFU/ml
winter from entering the house and causing wet litter. -12 75 110 210 400 600 700–1050 Fecal Coliform bacteria 3 0 CFU/ml
• In tunnel ventilated houses, if birds are confined inside Oxygen Reduction Potential The ORP range at which 2–4 ppm of free chlorine will effectively sanitize water at a
the house due to hot weather, ensure that the stocking -23 75 110 210 400 600 700–850 650–750 mEq
(ORP) 3 favorable pH range of 5–7.
densities are appropriate for bird confinement.
Acknowledgment: Dr. Hongwei Xin, Professor, Department of * Limits may be lower as interactions exist between magnesium and sulphate; and between sodium, potassium, chloride and sulphate.
• Allowable levels of gases at floor level in the house are: Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering and Department of Animal 1
Carter & Sneed, 1996. Drinking Water Quality for Poultry, Poultry Science and Technology Guide, North Carolina State University Poultry Extension Service. Guide no. 42
ammonia (NH3) < 25 ppm; carbon dioxide (CO2) < 5000 Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA 2
Marx and Jaikaran, 2007. Water Analysis Interpretation. Agri-Facts, Alberta Ag-Info Centre. Refer to http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca/app84/rwqit for online Water Analysis Tool
ppm; carbon monoxide (CO) < 50 ppm. 3
Watkins, 2008. Water: Identifying and Correcting Challenges. Avian Advice 10(3): 10–15 University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Fayetteville

Perches Perch Dimensions Transition Period from Rear to Peak

• Essential for rearing birds that will go into an aviary system
• Enrich birds’ environment and allow expression of normal behaviors
Egg Production
• Allow birds to fully develop leg and breast muscles Frequently formulate to changing feed consumption
• Encourage jumping habits which increase bone strength and calcium during transition period until feed consumption is consistent
content of bone and will be important in good nesting behavior. This increases 120 / 2000 100
the mobility of hens in multi-tier aviary systems.
Hen-day egg production (%)
• Reduce social stress by providing safe resting sites 115 / 1900 90
• Increase living space in house Body weight (g)
• Allow birds to roost at night
110 / 1800 Feed consumption 80
• May reduce piling behavior in flocks (g / day per bird)
Perch Design
FEED CONSUMPTION (g / day per bird)

• Floor-reared birds should have access to perches and slats no later than 10 days of age. 105 / 1700 70
HEN-DAY EGG PRODUCTION (%)

• Perch height should not exceed 1 m to avoid injuries.
• Provide 10–15 cm perch space per bird.
100 / 1600 60
BODY WEIGHT (g)
EGG WEIGHT (g)

• Separate perch rails by at least 30 cm to prevent cannibalistic pecking of birds on adjacent rails. Egg weight (g)
• Place perches on slats to maintain good litter conditions and control floor eggs.
< 3.2 cm >
• Avoid slippery perches. 95 / 1500 50
• Perches should be round or oval shaped for better gripping and comfort.
• Perches should support bottom of foot.
90 / 1400 40
• If possible, use the same perch style in rear and lay houses.
• Don’t use perches above water lines during rear if using an electric deterrent over water line in production.
• Perches should be made of plastic or metal. 85 / 1300 30
• Perches should be easy to clean and disinfect between flocks.
• Seal cracks, crevices and open ends of pipes to reduce hiding areas of red mites (Dermanyssus gallinae).
80 / 1200 20
• Perches are ideally placed over feed lines and on the top level in aviaries.
PERCH EXAMPLES 75 / 1100 10
70 / 1000 0
WEEKS OF AGE 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36
Pre-Lay Peaking Ration

Ration
Transition Period Pre-Lay Ration

• During the transition period, nutrient requirements • Feed when most pullets show reddening of combs.
increase dramatically. • Pre-Lay Diet is important to increase medullary bone
• Occurring during the transition period: reserves in pullets prior to egg production. Medullary
– Rapidly increasing egg production bone is the form of bone that is quickly mobilized for
Wall perch Perch over feeder A-frame perch with slats eggshell formation.
– Increasing egg size
– Increasing body weight • Plan to feed for maximum of 7–14 days before point of
lay.
• Feed consumption may increase slowly during transition:
• Begin introducing large particle calcium into the diet
– In underweight birds beginning with the Pre-Lay Diet.
– In flocks lacking uniformity • Discontinue Pre-Lay Diet with the commencement of egg
– During high environmental temperatures production.
• Poor uniformity prolongs the transition period and may
result in low peak and poor persistency of production. Peaking Ration
• Monitor feed intake and egg production carefully during • Formulations for low feed intakes (88–95 g / day per
transition and adjust dietary nutrient concentration bird) may be given to better meet the hen’s nutrient
accordingly. requirements. Increase vitamin and trace mineral levels
in these low intake diets.
• Begin Peaking Diet with onset of lay (1% egg production).
• Feed intake may be reduced if birds are not accustomed
to large particle calcium (i.e. use of a Pre-Lay Diet).
Perch in aviary system Elevated platform • Ensure that Peaking Diet is in the feeders when first eggs
are laid, not in the feed bin.

Transition Period from Rear to Peak Feed Consumption

Egg Production (continued) • Hens should have access to feed at all times.
• A phase-feeding program should be practiced to ensure
• After 10 weeks of age, hens tend to increase or decrease
feed consumption to maintain energy intake—in other
correct nutrient consumption throughout lay. Phase words, hens will consume more of a low-energy diet than
Transfer to the Laying House Body Weight Loss of Birds in Transit feeding matches nutrient intake with performance and a high-energy diet.
• Barn, aviary and free range birds must be transferred to the layer It should be noted that at the time of transfer from desired egg size. • Heat stress results in lower feed and energy
house a minimum of 14 days before the first egg. This is typically rearing to laying houses, there will be some loss in • Layer diets should be formulated according to the actual consumption. Increasing the energy content in the feed
between 14–16 weeks of age. body weight (which is normally 10–12%). This loss feed consumption and level of desired production. can result in better body weight gain, egg production and
• Earlier transfer makes it easier for birds to adapt to their new is mainly due to reduced water intake and some egg weight when the effective ambient temperature is
• The number of feedings per day is important as a feed
laying environment prior to the onset of egg production. dehydration of the pullet. high. For more information on heat stress management,
management tool, but careful depth control in the feed
see the “Understanding Heat Stress in Layers” technical
• Two weeks prior to moving, gradually increase light intensity to To help regain these losses, the following factors trough is essential to avoid feed waste.
update at www.hyline.com.
match the laying house. should be considered. • Ensure the feed track/feeders are reduced to a lower level
• Fats or oils are concentrated sources of energy and
• Light hours of rearing and production house should be matched • Age of transfer (earlier transfers are less stressful). in the middle of the day to ensure the birds consume
can be useful in increasing the energy content and
at transfer. smaller feed particles.
• Availability of fresh potable water, monitoring palatability of feed.
• Three days before moving pullets to the laying house, begin intake levels to ensure good uptake. • Stimulate feed consumption by running feeders without
• Vegetable oils are typically high in linoleic acid, which
using water-soluble vitamins and electrolytes in the drinking adding additional feed. Manage feeders so that additional
• Availability of fresh feed, similar in physical tends to increase egg size. A blend of vegetable oils may
water to relieve stress. feedings do not create excessive fine feed particles.
quality and nutrient profile to that which the bird also be acceptable.
• Transfer birds quickly to laying house, and transfer all birds the has been used to the week prior to transfer. • The hens’ feed consumption rate is governed by several
same day. Move early in the morning so birds can keep to a factors, including body weight (or age), rate of egg
• Match lighting Programs between rearing and production, egg weight, ambient temperature, feed
normal daily routine.
laying houses. texture and dietary energy content.
• Water consumption during the last week on the rearing farm Approximate Relationship between Feed
• Match drinker and feeder type between rearing • Hy-Line Brown has a limited ability to adjust their feed
should be noted and compared with water consumption in the
and laying.
Consumption and Environmental Temperature
laying house immediately after transfer. The time taken to match consumption to meet their needs for specific nutrients. 135
the previous level of water consumption and subsequently • Care must be taken in hot or cold ambient After 10 weeks of age, hens tend to increase or decrease
exceed it will be an indication of how well the birds have conditions to maintain an appropriate house feed consumption (to a limited extent) to maintain energy
adapted to their new environment. Birds should be drinking temperature. intake. 130
normally by 6 hours after transfer. • Ensure laying house environment is set up ready
• For the first week, keep nipple drinkers lowered after transfer to for pullets.
125
slightly above the bird’s back before raising them to head level. • Ensure birds are moved with welfare as a priority.
• Leave lights on at night for the first few nights after transfer to
120
reduce the risk of birds piling.
FEED INTAKE (g/bird/day)

• Increase light intensity for first 2–3 days to help birds adapt to
their new environment. 115
• House temperature at transfer of 15–20°C will encourage feed
intake. 110
Barn Systems 105

• In barn systems with both litter and elevated slat areas, place
females on slats when moving to the production house. 100
• Plastic fencing can be temporarily used to retain birds on the
slatted area for a few days to ensure they quickly become
95
familiar with drinkers, feeders and nests. Birds should be let out 132 126 120 114 108 102
of the confined area as soon as possible.
90
Aviary Systems Plastic fencing is used to temporarily retain birds on

85
slatted area after transfer to train birds to have correct
• The best pullets are reared in an aviary system and trained to 10 15 20 25 30 35
eating, drinking and sleeping behaviors.
use an aviary system from the first day of life. ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURE (°C)
• Place birds inside the aviary system when transferring the flock.
It is important that all birds are in the aviary system before lights For every 1°C change in ambient temperature, there is an
go off at night. This may require manually placing floor birds into approximate change of 1.2 grams of feed consumption. For
the system until they are trained to sleep in the system. example, if temperature is reduced from 21°C to 15°C, feed
intake may increase by 7.2 grams/bird per day.
• Some aviary systems allow birds to be retained within the
system for a few days after transfer to learn to use the feeders,
waterers and nests before egg production begins.
• It is advisable to retain the hens within the aviary system if
coming from floor rearing houses.
• Rearing birds in intensive systems to go into aviary and barn
laying facilities is not recommended.

Production Period Nutritional Recommendations Dietary Nutrient Concentrations for

Production Period (According to Phase and Feed Intake)
FEEDING PHASE PEAKING LAYER 2 LAYER 3 LAYER 4
PRODUCTION First egg until production 2% below peak 88–85% Less than 85% PEAKING LAYER 2 LAYER 3 LAYER 4
FEEDING PHASE
drops 2% below peak to 89% First egg until production drops 2% below peak to 89% 88–85% Less than 85%
100 PRODUCTION 2% below peak
90 NUTRITION RECOMMENDED CONCENTRATION
Hen-day egg production (%)

CUMULATIVE EGG MASS (kg)
Metabolizable energy, kcal/kg 2796–2916 2748–2868 2701–2820 2629–2749

80
Metabolizable energy, MJ/kg 11.70–12.20 11.50–12.00 11.30–11.80 11.00–11.50
70
FEED CONSUMPTION (*Typical Feed Consumption)
EGG WEIGHT (g)
60 g/day per bird 100 105 110 115* 120 125 105 110 115* 120 125 100 105 110* 115 120 100 105 110* 115 120
Egg weight (g)
50 Standardized Ileal Digestible Amino Acids
40 Lysine, % 0.83 0.79 0.75 0.72 0.69 0.66 0.76 0.73 0.70 0.67 0.64 0.78 0.74 0.71 0.68 0.65 0.75 0.71 0.68 0.65 0.63
Methionine, % 0.41 0.39 0.37 0.35 0.34 0.33 0.37 0.36 0.34 0.33 0.31 0.38 0.36 0.35 0.33 0.32 0.36 0.34 0.33 0.31 0.30
30
Methionine+Cystine,% 0.71 0.68 0.65 0.62 0.60 0.57 0.66 0.63 0.60 0.57 0.55 0.66 0.63 0.60 0.58 0.55 0.63 0.60 0.57 0.55 0.53
20
Cumulative egg mass (kg) Threonine, % 0.58 0.55 0.53 0.51 0.48 0.46 0.53 0.51 0.49 0.47 0.45 0.55 0.52 0.50 0.47 0.46 0.53 0.50 0.48 0.46 0.44
10 Tryptophan, % 0.17 0.17 0.16 0.15 0.15 0.14 0.16 0.15 0.15 0.14 0.13 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.14 0.14 0.16 0.15 0.14 0.14 0.13
0 Arginine, % 0.86 0.82 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.69 0.79 0.76 0.72 0.69 0.67 0.81 0.77 0.74 0.71 0.68 0.78 0.74 0.71 0.68 0.65
WEEKS OF AGE 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 Isoleucine, % 0.65 0.62 0.59 0.56 0.54 0.52 0.59 0.57 0.54 0.52 0.50 0.61 0.58 0.55 0.53 0.51 0.59 0.56 0.53 0.51 0.49
Change diet based on % of production Valine, % 0.73 0.70 0.66 0.63 0.61 0.58 0.67 0.64 0.61 0.59 0.56 0.69 0.65 0.62 0.60 0.57 0.66 0.63 0.60 0.57 0.55
NUTRITION RECOMMENDED NUTRIENT INTAKE1 Total Amino Acids
Metabolizable energy2, kcal/kg 2796–2916 2749–2868 2701–2820 2629–2749 Lysine, % 0.91 0.87 0.83 0.79 0.76 0.73 0.83 0.80 0.76 0.73 0.70 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.74 0.71 0.82 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.69
Metabolizable energy2, MJ/kg 11.70–12.20 11.50–12.00 11.30–11.80 11.00–11.50 Methionine, % 0.44 0.415 0.40 0.38 0.36 0.35 0.40 0.38 0.37 0.35 0.34 0.41 0.39 0.37 0.36 0.34 0.39 0.37 0.35 0.34 0.32
Standardized Ileal Digestible Amino Acids / Total Amino Acids3 Methionine+Cystine,% 0.80 0.76 0.73 0.70 0.67 0.64 0.74 0.71 0.67 0.65 0.62 0.75 0.71 0.68 0.65 0.62 0.71 0.67 0.64 0.62 0.59
Lysine, mg/day 830 / 909 800 / 876 780 / 854 750 / 821 Threonine, % 0.69 0.65 0.62 0.60 0.57 0.55 0.63 0.60 0.57 0.55 0.53 0.64 0.61 0.58 0.56 0.54 0.62 0.59 0.56 0.54 0.52
Methionine, mg/day 407 / 437 392 / 422 382 / 411 360 / 387 Tryptophan, % 0.21 0.20 0.19 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.19 0.18 0.17 0.17 0.16 0.20 0.19 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.19 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16
Methionine+Cystine, mg/day 714 / 805 688 / 776 663 / 748 630 / 711 Arginine, % 0.92 0.88 0.84 0.80 0.77 0.74 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.87 0.83 0.79 0.76 0.73 0.84 0.80 0.76 0.73 0.70
Threonine, mg/day 581 / 684 560 / 659 546 / 642 525 / 618
Isoleucine, % 0.69 0.66 0.63 0.60 0.58 0.56 0.64 0.61 0.58 0.56 0.54 0.65 0.62 0.59 0.57 0.55 0.63 0.60 0.57 0.55 0.53
Tryptophan, mg/day 174 / 208 168 / 201 164 / 196 158 / 188
Valine, % 0.81 0.77 0.73 0.70 0.67 0.65 0.74 0.71 0.67 0.65 0.62 0.76 0.72 0.69 0.66 0.63 0.73 0.69 0.66 0.63 0.61
Arginine, mg/day 863 / 928 832 / 895 811 / 872 780 / 839
Isoleucine, mg/day 647 / 696 624 / 671 608 / 654 585 / 629 Crude protein, % 17.00 16.19 15.45 14.78 14.17 13.60 15.95 15.23 14.57 13.96 13.40 16.00 15.24 14.55 13.91 13.33 15.50 14.76 14.09 13.48 12.92
Valine, mg/day 730 / 806 704 / 776 686 / 757 660 / 728 Sodium, % 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.14 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.14 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15
Crude protein , g/day 4
17.00 16.75 16.00 15.50 Chloride, % 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.14 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.14 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.18 0.17 0.16 0.16 0.15
Sodium, mg/day 180 180 180 180 Linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), % 1.00 0.95 0.91 0.87 0.83 0.80 0.95 0.91 0.87 0.83 0.80 1.00 0.95 0.91 0.87 0.83 1.00 0.95 0.91 0.87 0.83
Chloride, mg/day 180 180 180 180
Linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), g/day 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
CALCIUM, PHOSPHORUS AND LIMESTONE PARTICLE SIZE CHANGES BASED ON AGE
Choline, mg/day 100 100 100 100
Weeks 17–37 Weeks 38–48 Weeks 49–61 Weeks 62–90
Feed Consumption, 100 105 110 115* 120 125 105 110 115* 120 125 100 105 110* 115 120 100 105 110* 115 120
g/day per bird
CALCIUM, PHOSPHORUS AND LIMESTONE PARTICLE SIZE CHANGES BASED ON AGE
Calcium, % 4.20 4.00 3.82 3.65 3.50 3.36 4.10 3.91 3.74 3.58 3.44 4.50 4.29 4.09 3.91 3.75 4.80 4.57 4.36 4.17 4.00
Weeks 17–37 Weeks 38–48 Weeks 49–61 Weeks 62–90
Phosphorus (available), % 0.46 0.44 0.42 0.40 0.38 0.37 0.40 0.38 0.37 0.35 0.34 0.38 0.36 0.35 0.33 0.32 0.36 0.34 0.33 0.31 0.30
Calcium5,6, g/day 4.20 4.30 4.50 4.80
Calcium Particle Size 50% : 50% 40% : 60% 35% : 65% 35% : 65%
Phosphorus (available)5,7, mg/day 460 420 380 360 (fine:coarse)
Calcium Particle Size 50% : 50% 40% : 60% 35% : 65% 35% : 65%
(fine:coarse)
1
Crude protein, methionine+cystine, fat, linoleic acid, and / or energy may be changed to optimize egg size.
2
Recommended energy range is based on energy values shown in feed ingredient table at back of this guide. It is important that target
1
Crude protein, methionine+cystine, fat, linoleic acid, and / or energy may be changed to optimize egg size. concentrations of dietary energy are adjusted according to energy system applied to raw material matrix if values differ from those
2
Recommended energy range is based on energy values shown in feed ingredient table at back of this guide. It is important that referred for raw materials in this guide.
target concentrations of dietary energy are adjusted according to energy system applied to raw material matrix if values differ from 3
Recommendation for Total Amino Acids is only appropriate to corn and soybean meal diet. Where diets utilize other ingredients,
those referred for raw materials in this guide. recommendations for Standardized Ileal Digestible Amino Acids must be followed.
3
Recommendation for Total Amino Acids is only appropriate to corn and soybean meal diet. Where diets utilize other ingredients, 4
Diets should always be formulated to provide required intake of amino acid. Concentration of crude protein in diet will vary with raw
recommendations for Standardized Ileal Digestible Amino Acids must be followed. material used. Crude protein value provided is an estimated typical value only.
4
Diets should always be formulated to provide required intake of amino acid. Concentration of crude protein in diet will vary with raw 5
Calcium and available phosphorus requirements are determined by flock age. When production remains higher and diets are fed for
material used. Crude protein value provided is an estimated typical value only. longer than ages shown, it is recommended to increase to calcium and phosphorus concentrations of next feeding phase.
5
Calcium and available phosphorus requirements are determined by flock age. When production remains higher and diets are fed for 6
Calcium carbonate particle size recommendation varies throughout lay. Refer to Calcium Particle Size Table. Dietary calcium levels may
longer than ages shown, it is recommended to increase to calcium and phosphorus concentrations of next feeding phase. need to be adjusted based on limestone solubility.
6
Calcium carbonate particle size recommendation varies throughout lay. Refer to Calcium Particle Size Table. Dietary calcium levels 7
may need to be adjusted based on limestone solubility.
7

Vitamins and Trace Minerals Feed Particle Size (Grist)

• As the vitamin / trace mineral premix is often found in fine feed particles, a minimum level of 0.5% added liquid oil / fat A sieve shaker separates a feed sample into categories based on particle size.
in meal diets binds small particles in feed.
• Use on the farm to check feed particle size from the feed mill—sample taken on delivery or from feed bins.
• Manage feeders to allow birds to consume fine particles during mid-day.
• Use to assess the uniformity of feed particle size throughout the feeding system—samples are taken from various points.
1
Minimum recommendations for rearing
IN 1000 KG COMPLETE DIET and laying periods. Local regulations
ITEM 1, 2, 3, 4 Rearing Period Laying Period
Too many fine feed particles:
may limit dietary content of individual
vitamins or minerals. • Feed intake decreases because birds
Vitamin A, IU 10,000,000 8,000,000 2
Store premixes according to supplier’s demonstrate a preference for a specific
Vitamin D35, IU 3,300,000 3,300,000 recommendations and observe ‘use particle size
by’ dates to ensure vitamin activity is
Vitamin E, g 25 20 maintained. Inclusion of antioxidant • Dust in house increases
Vitamin K (menadione), g 3.5 2.5
may improve premix stability. • May lead to feather pecking
3
Vitamin and mineral recommendations
Thiamin (B1), g 2.2 2.5 vary according to activity. Too many coarse feed particles:
4
Where heat treatment is applied to
Riboflavin (B2), g 6.6 5.5 diet, higher levels of vitamins may be • Birds selectively eat large particles
Niacin (B3) , g 6
40 30 required. Consult with vitamin supplier • Risk of feed separation increases Hy-Line Sieve Shaker
regarding stability through individual
production processes.
• Separation of large particles is a particular
Pantothenic acid (B5), g 10 8 problem with flat chain feeders.
5
A proportion of Vitamin D3 can
Pyridoxine (B6), g 4.5 4 be supplemented as 25-hydroxy
D3 according to supplier’s OPTIMAL FEED PARTICLE PROFILE
Biotin (B7), mg 100 75 recommendations and applicable
Folic acid (B9), g 1 0.9 limits. PARTICLE SIZE STARTER GROWER DEVELOPER PRODUCTION
6
Higher levels of Niacin are
Cobalamine (B12), mg 23 23 recommended in alternative systems. < 1 mm < 15% < 15% < 15%
Choline , g7
110 110
7
Inclusion may require adjustment 1–3 mm diameter,
when other dietary sources are 1–2 mm crumble feed should 45–60% 25–35% 20–30%
Manganese8, g 90 90 considered. contain < 10% fine feed
8
Greater bioavailability and productivity 2–3 mm 10–25% 25–40% 30–40%
Zinc8, g 85 80 particles
may be possible with use of chelated
mineral sources. > 3 mm – 5–10% 10–15%
Iron8, g 30 40
Copper8, g 15 8 For more information, see the “Feed Granulometry” technical update at www.hyline.com.
Iodine, g 1.5 1.2 Best Practices
Selenium8, g 0.25 0.22 • A 3–4 hour gap between mid-day feedings allows time for birds to consume fine particles.
• Add a minimum of 0.5% liquid oil / fat in meal diets to incorporate and retain small particles in feed.
• Use larger particle size meal or crumble to increase intakes in hot climates.
• Use a crumble starter feed to promote good feed intake.
• Use a coarse mash feed for grower, developer, pre-lay and layer.
Calcium Particle Size

PARTICLE STARTER, WEEKS WEEKS WEEKS WEEKS
GROWER, PRE-LAY
SIZE 17–37 38–48 49–62 63+
DEVELOPER
Fine (0–2 mm) 100% 50% 50% 45% 40% 35%
Coarse (2–4 mm) – 50% 50% 55% 60% 65%
• The appropriate particle size depends on the solubility of limestone.

• Dietary calcium levels may need to be adjusted based on limestone solubility.
• Limestone dark in color is geologically older, containing more impurities (typically magnesium) and is generally lower in
solubility and calcium availability.
• Oyster shell and other marine shells are good sources of soluble calcium.
Fine calcium (0–2 mm) Coarse calcium (2–4 mm)

Photos courtesy of Longcliff Quarries Ltd.

Preventing Floor Eggs in Aviary/ Barn Systems Management of Aviary Flocks

• Rear pullets in compatible aviary or barn systems. Nests Lighting for Aviary Flocks—Simulating
• Train pullets to jump early, using systems or water tables. • Ensure there is sufficient nest space and that hens are Sunrise and Sunset
• Ensure pullets are within body weight standards. using all the nests. Partition the house if it appears only a • 30 minutes before the scheduled time for house lights to
• Light should be evenly distributed within the house, few nests are being used. turn off, turn off the lights at the floor level. 15 minutes
avoiding areas of shadows. Use bulbs with good light • Make sure nests are easy to access. Any obstructions later, turn lights off at the second level and finally the
dispersion to eliminate dark spots under feeders and in should be removed. top level. This simulation of sunset within the house
corners. • Nests should be dark (< 0.5 lux), secluded, warm, and free brings the birds up into the system to sleep on the upper
• Lighting in the house should keep the entrance to the nests of air drafts. roosting level.
well lit, but keep the inside of nests dark. • Nests should have a perching area at the entrance to allow • In the morning, this lighting sequence is reversed to
• Eliminate corners, where hens like to lay eggs. for examination and easy access by females. bring birds down from the upper level to nests, feed and
• Feed lines should not be directly in front of nests. water.
• Rope lighting within the system works well for this
NEST TRAINING • For aviary systems with nest boxes not on the top level,
application.
position water lines in front of nests and in lower levels.
• In barn systems having automatic colony nests, open nest
boxes and remove curtains to encourage nest exploration • Do not place the water lines on levels above the nest
from the first day after transfer. boxes, as this will increase the risk of eggs being laid Stocking Density in Aviary Systems (check local
outside nests. regulations concerning space requirements)
• Train females to use nests by frequent walks through the
house in the morning for the first 8 weeks after birds are • Turn nest lights on 1–1.5 hours before house lights are Stocking density in poultry housing should always follow
moved to the production house. turned on to attract females. Turn nest lights off 1 hour local regulations. If there are no regulations on stocking
after house lights come on. density, then the following guidelines should be met.
• While walking, move birds away from resting areas,
out of corners and toward nests. • Discontinue nest light usage after 26 weeks of age. • Stocking density from 6 to 9 birds/m2 of useable floor
• In aviary systems, walk the birds in the evening to prevent • False walls or partitions (perpendicular to nests and spaced space (excluding nests and perches).
birds from sleeping on the floor. every 5–7 m) may reduce overcrowding in nests. • In aviary systems, the vertical living space of the house
• It is important that all birds are within the aviary system or • Close nests at night. Do not allow birds to sleep in nests. is increased, allowing for bird density up to 18 birds/
on the slats in barn systems before lights go off. Manually • Eliminate dark areas in the house to discourage floor eggs. m2 of useable floor space. Consult with equipment
place floor birds in the system until they are trained to • Replace worn nest floor mats. manufacturers for appropriate stocking densities.
sleep in the system. • Overcrowded birds will struggle to properly access feed
• If aviary has capacity to lock birds in at night, this should A good nest floor mat: and water. In higher stocking densities, ensure proper
be done during the transition period to teach birds to • Provides comfort for nesting female feeder and drinker space guidelines are followed.
lay in the nests. Do not open aviary doors until birds are • Cushions egg to prevent damage
consistently laying in the nest. • Keeps egg clean
• During the first week of production, leave a few eggs in the • Separates dirt and feathers from
nest to encourage females to use nests. egg surfaces
• Do not give birds access to the outside until they are • Allows egg to roll easily to egg belt
consistently using the nests to lay eggs.
• Collect floor eggs frequently. Floor egg collection must be
done more frequently at the beginning of lay. Birds will lay HOUSE MANAGEMENT
eggs on the floor if other eggs are present. • Use < 5 cm litter depth. Litter deeper than 5 cm results in
• Be sure all floor eggs are removed before lights go out at increased floor eggs. Remove excess litter if needed.
night. • Flocks housed in all-slat production houses should also be
• Place perches on slats in houses with a combination of reared on slat or wire floors.
slats and litter areas. • Use of electrified deterrent wires on slats around house
perimeter will discourage egg laying in corners or near
walls. Place deterrent wires 5 cm away from the wall of the
house and 10 cm above the floor.
• Deterrent wires should be activated as soon as birds are
housed.
• Solid perches above water and feed lines are preferred.
• Feed and water lines should not block the movement of
females to nests.
• Drinkers and perches in front of nests encourage bird
movement toward nests.
• Schedule feed lines to run as soon as birds are awake and
again after most eggs have been laid. Do not disturb the
hens during peak egg laying time.
• Programming lights to encourage birds to sleep on the
slatted area or within the aviary system will help prevent
Open nest boxes and pull open a few curtains on nests floor eggs.
after transfer for birds to explore and become accustomed • Do not run feeders during peak egg laying time.
to nests. Slats can be inclined to the nest opening to make
• After nests are closed at the end of the day, it is useful to
access easier.
use low wattage roosting lights over automatic nests to
attach hens.

Management of Aviary Flocks (continued) Management of Free Range Flocks

Bird Acclimatization Nutrition
This is a critical period between rearing and the Feeding birds in alternative systems is generally regarded
introduction of the laying house; it is vital to adjust the as more difficult than feeding birds in colony systems,
birds to their new surroundings, the environment and the because of the additional competition between birds
critical factor of temperature. for feeder space, and because of greater fluctuations in
house temperature. Birds in alternative systems generally
Once the flock has settled into the laying house, start have higher nutrient requirements than birds in intensive
reducing the temperature (depending on time of year) to systems. Be aware of the potential pitfalls that can occur as
nearer the outside temperatures in order to acclimatize a result of inadequate nutrition, and of the measures that
them for when the popholes open. This will help with may be required to prevent or rectify them. Some points to
stress and welfare of the flock at around 19 weeks. bear in mind are:
• Make sure that feeding space is adequate and that the

distribution of feeders allows good access by the birds.
Free range flocks have more competitive environments
which could result in more aggression.
Aviary systems typically have the upper level as a resting/ • Seasonal changes in temperature can exert a major
sleeping area. Use a sequential lighting program to influence on feed intake, particularly in poorly insulated
encourage birds up into the system at night. houses. Feed intake by birds can change by as much
as 30–40 g/bird/day from summer to winter. Increasing
the quantity of feed supplied to the birds during
cold weather, coupled with seasonal changes in the
concentration of nutrients in the diets based on actual
flock feed consumption, should be followed.
Ramps help facility facilitate bird movement between levels • The same feeding schedule used during the rearing
in an aviary system. period should be repeated during the laying period to
train feeding behavior. This will ensure adequate feed
intake during the peak period.
Pophole Management
• Popholes should be evenly distributed along the outside
of the house and in sufficient numbers to prevent traffic
jams as birds move in and out of the house. Preferably
Use ramps in an aviary system to facilitate bird movement have popholes on two sides of the house.
between the floor and the system or between tiers within • Begin opening popholes to give laying hens access to the
the system. Generally, a change in elevation greater than 90 outside after they are consistenly using the nests.
cm a ramp will be needed to encourage bird movement and • On days with strong wind, only open the popholes on the
prevent injuries. leeward side of the house to prevent stirring of dust in
the house.
• Introduce the birds to pasture gradually by increasing
the amount of time the popholes are open. Make the
transition over one week.
• Introducing birds to pasture too quickly can disturb their
eating behavior and reduce their nutrient intake. Popholes are opened to give birds access to pasture as
• Close popholes gradually as birds are returning to the soon as possible after transfer.
house from outside. Close popholes at dusk or when
artificial lights are to be turned off.
• Once the flock is given access to pasture, routinely open
popholes to avoid bird stress.
• Areas around popholes typically have the heaviest
contamination with internal parasite eggs. Tilling the
ground in these areas will reduce this contamination.
• Slats or large rocks should be placed outside of pophole
openings to prevent muddy areas.
This photo shows good maintaince of the area around

popholes to keep the area dry and dirt out of the house.

Management of Free Range Flocks (continued) Management of Free Range Flocks (continued)
Pasture Management Exposure to Pasture: Predators
• In some countries, the stocking density is determined by (check local regulations for free range flocks) Free range layers are attractive to predators. There are several types of
manure nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) management • Hens that will have exposure to pasture during the lay predators—from mammals (badgers, dogs, foxes, coyotes) to large reptiles
plans. period should be exposed to pasture during the pullet (iguanas, snakes) and raptors (hawks, owls). Predators can cause injury and
• Use of synthetic amino acid to reduce dietary nitrogen period. death. Predators will often kill or injure large numbers of birds—far more
load and low phosphorus diets can allow higher stocking • Birds in rear can be exposed to pasture when they are than they are able to consume. Predator attacks on the birds cause panic and
densities. fully feathered. hysteria in the flock. This can lead to piling (smothering) and trigger outbreaks
• Stocking density on well-drained pasture can be higher • Birds can be encouraged to explore pasture by opening of feather pecking.
than on poorly drained clay soil. access doors after the peak laying time and walking the
• The pasture surrounding the laying house can be divided
Tips for Dealing with Predators
house to drive birds onto the pasture.
into paddocks, which the birds use for periods of 6–8 • Gradually introduce birds to pasture after they are • Permanent fencing should be at least 1.83 m (6 ft) in height, with a 30 cm
weeks before rotating to a new paddock. Rotation of effectively using the nest boxes. During the nest training overhang to the outside to prevent predators from climbing over. The fence
paddocks provides time to regrow grass in bird-worn period, hens can be let outside after the peak egg laying mesh should be small enough to exclude predators. Foxes are frequent visitors to free range flocks.
areas. Resting paddocks reduces the number of worm period. • Bury fencing 0.25 m (0.82 ft) into to the ground to prevent predators from
eggs in soil. If a rotational pasture system is used, digging under the fence.
stocking density can be higher. • Overhead netting can be used if possible to prevent wild bird predators from
• Birds tend to use pasture areas near the house more than attacking, and prevents contact with wild birds.
areas away from the house. Care should be provided to
• Keep pastures mowed to keep predators from approaching the birds
spread birds over all usable pasture areas.
unaware.
• Pastures can be maintained in good condition by the
• Flexible electrified fencing will generally provide satisfactory levels of
judicious use of chain harrows. Harrowing breaks up
protection against most predators.
the soil, restores soil structure and improves drainage.
Harrowing the soil kills worm eggs by exposing them to • Old CDs or other reflective materials can be hung in paddocks to deter birds
sunlight. of prey.
• Use more clover with grass in bird-worn areas around • Use live traps outside the fence when predators are seen.
popholes and close to the house. Clover is durable • Two electric wires should be used on the fence: one in the middle of the
against trampling by birds. fence and the other just off the ground. Birds of prey will attack birds exposed in
• Placing shelters in the pasture area encourages birds to • Electric deterrent wires should be 25 cm above the ground and 0.6 m (1 ft) open pastures.
move further from the house and utilize more of the away from the permanent fence. A non-charged grounding wire placed
pasture area. Shelters also provide shade and protection between the ground and the electrified deterrent wire will help direct
from rain and wind. Shelters should provide 8m2 of cover predators into the electrified wire.
per 1000 birds. • Check connections between the sections of fence and the transformer.
• Pasture shelters, when used as the only housing, should • The fencing and power unit must be well maintained in order to continue to
be able to shelter all the birds at one time, and provide work effectively.
feed and water. • Grass underneath the fence must be kept cut to prevent shorting, and regular
• Trees, shrubs and shelters in the pasture area provide checks should be made on the connections between sections of fence and
cover for birds to feel safe as they move away from the the transformer.
house. Chickens are naturally fearful of exposed areas. • Placing alpacas in the pasture can help deter predators, particularly foxes.
• Between flocks, revegetate the pastures with emphasis
on heavily used areas near the house and around
Snakes and reptiles are potential predators.
popholes.
• Bird pastures can be dual purposed as orchards,
woodlands and for livestock grazing.
• Pasture enrichments like fallen trees for perching
and covered sand boxes for dust bathing should be
considered.
• Some plants are poisonous to birds (i.e. hemlock, Pastures should be well drained, not allowing standing
monkshood, privet, yew, nightshade, horseradish). water after a rain.
Wild and domestic dogs like chicken.

Image Credits
Airwolfhound (username). “Fox.” 22 April 2015. Online image. Flickr.com. 17 September 2015. https://www.flickr.com/photos/24874528@
N04/18392014581/. Creative Commons license at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/.
Supinski, Fryderyk. “Red-Tailed Hawk.” 7 April 2013. Online image. Flickr.com. 17 September 2015. https://www.flickr.com/photos/
supinski/8632922145/. Creative Commons license at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/.
Sonstroem, Eric. “Gopher Snake.” 11 April 2015. Online image. Flickr.com. 17 September 2015. https://www.flickr.com/photos/sonstroem/17124375012/.
Creative Commons license at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/.
Outside shelters and natural vegetation encourage TheGirlsNY (username). “Dingo.” 12 August 2008. Online image. Flickr.com. 18 September 2015. https://www.flickr.com/photos/thegirlsny/2829178725.
birds to use more of the available pasture area. Creative Commons license at https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/.

Litter Management Feather Pecking Tips for Preventing Excessive Feather

Litter is used in a poultry house to dilute manure, absorb Sand Birds have a social hierarchy called the pecking order.
Pecking Behavior
moisture and provide bird welfare, like the opportunity to Some pecking is normal behavior to establish a stable
Advantages: Prevention measures taken during the rearing and early
dust bathe. A number of substrates are used as litter in social structure. Birds also spend a significant portion
poultry houses. Birds can express foraging and scratching • Reduces bacterial growth in the house compared to of the day foraging for food. Environments that are not laying periods are more effective than in older flocks
behaviors on litter. The ideal litter should be absorbent, organic litter substrates. suitable for the expression of these normal behaviors can already exhibiting excessive feather pecking behavior.
non-caking, non-toxic and resist mold growth. It should • Lower surface temperature. lead to excessive feather pecking, and in extreme cases, • Match rearing and laying house environments as
have high carbon levels to make it easily compostable. • Allows for dust bathing behavior. cannibalism of other birds. closely as possible. Provide plenty of perch space in
Use 5 cm of litter in laying houses. The key aspect of litter Disadvantages: both.
management is moisture control. Litter moisture above 30% • Nutritional deficiencies can lead to feather pecking. A • Provide the recommended levels of light intensity
can result in excessive ammonia in the house and allow the • Sand is destructive to machinery.
well-balanced diet based on Hy-Line recommendations in the house. In flocks exhibiting excessive feather
growth of pathogenic microorganisms. • Sand recycling system may need to be purchased. will ensure dietary needs are met. Low protein and amino pecking behavior, reduce light intensity to try to calm
Common litter types: • Difficult to remove from the house and clean. acid imbalance, particularily methionine, can cause the flock.
• Sand or gravel up to 8 mm granule size • More attention to floor temperature is needed. feather pecking. Similiarly, low salt and calcium in feed • Check the diet adequacy, paying particular attention to
can create cravings for these nutrients and result in more energy, protein, sulfur-containing amino acids, salt and
• Wood shavings pecking behavior.
Wood Shavings calcium.
• Wheat, spelt, rye straw • Overcrowding the bird’s floor, feeder, water and nest
Wood shavings should be made from soft wood trees. • Reduce bird density, if possible. Reduce bird group size
• Bark mulch Shavings from hardwood may splinter, injuring the bird. space can cause increased feather pecking. with the use of partitions.
• Coarse wood chips (Sawdust as litter is less absorbent than wood shavings and • Loud noises cause stress, which leads to piling or feather • Minimize heat stress during the summer months. For
• Rice hulls tends to cake when wet.) pecking. Maintain equipment and check belts regularly to more information, see the “Understanding Heat Stress
Advantage: ensure proper function. in Layers” technical update at www.hyline.com.
Litter selection is a balance of animal welfare, costs and egg • A common litter material with good moisture absorbancy • High light intensity or sudden changes in the lighting • Enrich the house environment by adding bales of
sanitation. Each litter substrate has benefits and weakness to that is compostible. program can cause piling. Flickering of the lights for any alfalfa on the floor, or add attractions like hanging
its use. It is important to expose the flock to litter during the reason, such as a generator test, can cause piling as well. string, plastic bottles or other toys to occupy birds’
Disadvantage:
pullet period. Birds exposed to litter at an early age (first 2 • Litter substrates, such as fine-particle wood shavings attention.
weeks of life) have less incidence of pecking behavior. • May increase incidence of feather pecking.
or sawdust, may lead to increased incidence of feather • Encourage more foraging behavior in barn systems
pecking. by adding small amounts of grain into the litter in the
Keys to Maintaining Dry Litter Straw • Low fiber, fine textured or pelleted feed reduces the bird’s afternoon.
Straw from barley, Bermuda grass, flax, oat, wheat or rye feeding time and might encourage more feather pecking.
• Use a good litter material with high moisture absorbency. • Add additional perches to provide more safe resting
can be used. Wheat straw is the most common. Straw
• Maintain sufficient minimum ventilation rate in the • Large flock sizes have a less stabile social structure and areas.
should be chopped to 2.5 cm (1 in) or less.
house. are more likely to have excessive feather pecking. • Quickly remove injured and dead birds from the flock.
• Maintain leak-free water systems, replace leaking Advantage: Remove any birds displaying aggressive pecking and
• Pecking around the preen gland (near the tail) may
nipples and maintain proper water level in bell drinkers. • Absorbs more moisture than wood shavings. indicate low salt in the diet or, in pullets 3–6 weeks of cannabalistic behavior.
• Maintain proper drinker height and water pressure to Disadvantages: age, might be an indication of infectious bursal disease. • Keep houses in good repair, eliminating loose wires,
prevent water spillage. sharp edges and areas where birds can be caught.
• Incidence of caking is higher in straw compared to wood • Poor beak trimming can lead to pecking injuries.
• Ensure good drainage of rain water away from the
shavings or bark. This caking can cause foot pad lesions. • The use of nipple drinkers may reduce feather pecking. • Ensure that nests are dark (< 0.5 lux) and safe for hens
house.
• Use of straw may increase incidence of feather pecking. to lay eggs without intrusion by other birds. Many
• Remove caked litter frequently and replace with clean pecking injuries to the vent occur in the nest when the
dry litter.
vent is temporarily protruded after laying an egg.
• Occasionally rake the litter to keep it friable and prevent Bark Mulch or Wood Chips
Piling and Smothering

caking. Encourage the birds to break up litter by placing Similar to wood shavings.
small amounts of whole grain into litter.
Advantage:
• Remove extra litter to prevent floor eggs and maintain
good air quality (less dust). • Good moisture holding capacity. • Birds may pile without a discernable cause. Identifying
Disadvantages: time periods when birds tend to gather or pile can
provide important clues to identify the reason for piling.
Grit • Particles more than 2.5 cm (1 in) in size lead to excessive Walking the house during these times may prevent piling
caking. and smothering.
Grit is given to the flock to increase development of the
crop and gizzard. Grit improves gizzard function to grind up • Excessive moisture can lead to mold problems. • Panic in the flock, caused by predator attacks or heavy
ingested forage material and increases the digestibility of rodent populations, can result in piling.
nutrients in the feed. There are two types of grit: soluble and • Hot areas in the house environment can cause piling.
insoluble. PARTICLE
AGE SIZE OF AMOUNT • Sunlight shining directly into the house creating bright
• Soluble grit—Soluble grit is added to every poultry diet in spots on the floor can cause birds to pile.
GRIT
the form of limestone or oyster shell. Other marine shells • Round off corners to prevent birds from congregating
can be used as soluble grit as well. To ensure proper shell < 3 Weeks 0.2 mm 1 g/bird in feed
there.
formation and to reduce the risk of soft bones, soluble
6–11 Weeks 3–5 mm 2 g in feed • Install partitions to reduce piling in some nest boxes.
grit should be added to the diet at Hy-Line recommended
levels. 4 g in feed or • Hens tend to gather together naturally during resting
11–16 Weeks 5–6 mm and sleeping, or when frightened. When these behaviors
• Insoluble grit—Insoluble or flint grit is an indigestible stone separate feeders
become exaggerated, piling/smothering can occur.
that is either added to the diet or picked up while foraging. Layers 6–8 mm 7 g/week • Playing music in the house may keep birds calm and less
Pastured birds should receive grit to help them break down Nest partitions placed perpendicular to the
reactive to sounds. nests and spaced every 5–7 meters reduces
grasses, seeds and insects they consume. • An afternoon feeding before lights go out will spread overcrowding in nests.
birds out in the house.

Disease Control Internal Parasites

A flock of pullets or layers can only perform up to its genetic • Houses and equipment should be designed to minimize
potential when disease influence is minimized. The effects the number of harborages, and pest-proofing features (Check local regulations regarding treatment of internal parasites)
of disease can vary from a subclinical one on performance should be incorporated wherever possible. In the case of Internal parasites cause damage to the bird’s intestinal tract and reduce the absorption of feed nutrients. This may result in
to serious levels of mortality. The diseases of economic red mite, equipment such as feeders, nest boxes, perch a variety of problems including:
importance differ widely between locations but, in every frames, etc., should be designed to minimize the number
• Loss of shell strength, yolk, color and egg size.
case, the challenge is to identify and control them. of cracks and crevices as these are typical resting areas.
• Poor body weight gain leading to unevenness or stunted birds.
• Use products with different active ingredients on a cyclical
Affected birds may be dull and show pale combs.
Biosecurity basis to reduce the risk of resistance developing. This is
particularly important in the case of red mite control. It is • Increased cannibalism through vent pecking due to straining.
Biosecurity is the best method of avoiding disease. A good • Death, in very heavy infestations.
important not to assume that poor levels of control are
biosecurity program identifies and controls the most likely
due to product resistance—in most cases unsatisfactory • Internal parasites can make birds more susceptible to disease or
ways a disease can enter the farm.
performance is due to shortcomings of the operator rather worsen an existing disease condition.
• The most biosecure system is all-in/all-out, with complete than the product. • Worm populations can increase rapidly in the flock. A
cleaning and disinfection between flocks.
deworming program should be in place.
• Human and equipment movement onto the farm should be
Disinfection • Rotation of pasture can be helpful in controlling internal
strictly controlled.
parasites.
• Visitors to the farm should be limited to those essential for Cleaning and disinfection of the house between flocks
its operation. reduces infection pressure for the next flock.
• Allow a minimum of 2 weeks down time between flocks. There are three important worms that may cause problems in free
• Visits should be documented in a logbook.
range birds:
• All visitors and workers should shower at a central • All feed, manure and litter should be removed from the
location before entering. house before cleaning. Roundworms (Ascaridia galli) Ascarids (roundworms) is a common parasite of barn-
• Anyone who has visited another poultry facility within the • Thoroughly clean air inlets, fan housing, fan blades and • These are the largest and most common. They are white, up to 5 reared and free range birds. Light infestations can
last 48 hours should not be permitted access. fan louvres. cm long and can be visible in droppings in heavy infestations. rapidly become heavy infestations. Photo courtesy Dr.
• Heating the house during washing improves the removal • The roundworm life cycle is 21 days. Repeated treatments 21 Yuko Sato, Iowa State University.
• Clean boots, clothing and head cover should be provided
for everyone working on or visiting the farm. of organic matter. days apart are needed to eliminate a heavy infestation.
• Clean footbaths containing disinfectant should be placed • The house should be cleaned of organic matter wiht a • Ascarid eggs may be eaten by insects, which spread the
outside the entries to all poultry houses. high-pressure spray of warm water. infestation when eaten by free range birds.
• If possible, avoid using outside crews or equipment for • Use foam/gel detergent to soak into organic matter and
vaccination, moving and beak treatment. equipment. Hairworms or Threadworms (Capillaria)
• Ideally, workers should be limited to a single house. • Wash the upper portion of the house before the pit. • These are much smaller (hair-like) and are barely visible with
• The number of flocks visited in one day should be limited • Use high-pressure warm water to rinse. the naked eye but can cause significant damage even in only
and the progression should be from younger to older • After it is fully dry, apply foam/spray disinfectant followed moderate infestations.
flocks and from healthy to sick flocks. After visiting a sick by fumigation. • Capillaria worms can infest the crop, esophagus and intestine.
flock, no other flock should be visited. • Flush and sanitize water lines. • Eggs become infective in 4–6 weeks in feces.
• The removal of old flocks from the farm is a time when • Monitoring of poultry houses for presence of Salmonella, • Some species of capillaria use the earthworm as an intermediate
disease can be introduced, as trucks and crews have often particularly Salmonella enteritidis, by routine host to complete its life cycle.
visited other farms. environmental testing is recommended.
• A single-aged rearing farm using an all-in, all-out principle • Spills of feed and broken eggs, etc., should be cleaned Caecal worms (Hetarakis gallinarum)
is best to prevent transmission of disease from older flocks up promptly; trash and clutter should not be allowed to Cecal worms (Heterakis) can carry the bacteria
• Hetarakis worms spend most of their time in the ceca, located
to younger, susceptible flocks. accumulate either inside or outside the house. (Histomonas meleagridis) responsible for the disease
at the lower end of the intestine. They cause no obvious harm in
• Farm Assurance schemes usually require you to have a themselves, but can carry another parasite called Histomonas called Blackhead. Photo courtesy Dr. Yuko Sato, Iowa
plan in place describing what biosecurity precautions you Vertically Transmitted Diseases meleagridis, the cause of Blackhead. State University.
follow. • Some diseases are known to be transmitted from infected
• Effective control of cecal worms provides good protection
• All houses should be designed to prevent exposure of the breeders to their progeny.
against Blackhead. Heterakis eggs can survive three years in pastures.
flock to wild birds, insects and rodents. • Disease-free breeders are the first step in the control of
• Birds become infected by picking up worm eggs from litter, soil and feces.
• Quickly and properly dispose of dead chickens. these diseases at the
commercial level. • The worm eggs need warm, moist conditions to develop outside the bird, which is why problems are frequently worse in
the spring and summer, especially following a wet spring.
• All breeders directly
Rodents under Hy-Line’s control • Worm infestation in the flock can be identified by examination of feces and culled birds, or worm egg counts on pool
are free of Mycoplasma fecal samples taken from the flock.
Rodents are known carriers of many poultry diseases and
gallisepticum, • Routine worm counts on droppings samples are recommended to monitor infection levels.
they are the most common reason for re-contamination
of a cleaned and disinfected poultry facility. They are also Mycoplasma synoviae, • Effective control is aimed at breaking the cycle of infection.
responsible for house-to-house spread of disease on a farm. Salmonella pullorum, • Strategic use of feed or water administered deworming treatments (starting in the rearing phase and and continuing
Salmonella gallinarum, during the laying period) will control worms in the flock, when used in conjunction with limiting stock density on land,
• The farm should be free of debris and tall grass that might Salmonella enteritidis,
provide cover for rodents. rotation of paddocks and providing good drainage.
Salmonella typhimurium and lymphoid leukosis.
• The perimeter of each house should have a 1 m wide area • Removal of heavily contaminated soil around the house between flocks can reduce exposure to worm eggs.
• Due to the possibility of horizontal transmission of any of
of crushed rock or concrete to prevent rodents burrowing these diseases, later generations may not remain free.
under the house.
• It is the responsibility of the breeding stock and
• Feed and eggs should be stored in rodent-proof areas. commercial flock owner to prevent horizontal transmission
• Bait stations should be placed throughout the house and of these diseases and continue testing to be assured of a
maintained with fresh rodenticide. negative status.

Internal Parasites (continued) External Parasites

(Check local regulations regarding treatment of internal parasites) Red Mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) Controlling Red Mite
Red mite is an important external parasite in laying flocks in • Breaking the cycle of re-infection when the house is
COCCIDIA Brachyspira all systems of management. Red mites are nocturnal blood empty is the most effective approach.
This parasitic infection of the intestines may lead to gut Brachyspira pilosicoli, previously known as Serpulina or feeders that hide during the day in dark, secluded areas • Treat the house between flocks, immediately after the
damage and, in severe infestations, death. More commonly, Treponema pilosicoli, is an intestinal spirochaete that can in the house. Red mites multiply rapidly in warm summer birds are removed from the house while the red mites
poor control of sub-clinical infection reduces feed conversion be associated with inflammation of the large intestine in a months. Even light infestations create irritation, leading to are still active.
or leaves pullets with chronic, irreversible gut damage. Pullet broad range of mammals and birds. poor performance and feed intake. More severe infestations • Use approved and effective products that have been
flocks may be uneven or underweight at housing and not can lead to some or all of the following: properly applied, to reach into all crevices on
perform to their full potential in lay. Birds in aviary, barn • It has been associated with typhilitis (inflamed caecae),
diarrhea (yellow and frothy), reduced egg production and • Flocks that are nervous with increased feather and vent equipment, walls, slats and nest boxes.
and free range systems must have resistance to coccidiosis pecking behavior.
egg shell soiling in chickens. • Use a fan nozzle to produce a flat spray.
through the use of coccidiostats or by vaccination. Control
of coccidia includes the following measures (check local • Other related organisms can be present without causing • Feed intake may be depressed. • Do not mix pesticides with disinfectants, unless
regulations): adverse effects (Brachyspira innocens) or varying recommended by the manufacturer.
• Heavy mite infestation can depress egg production by up
severity of adverse effects (Brachyspira intermedia and to 5%. • Red mites can live off a host without feeding for up to 6
• Use ionophores or chemicals on a step-down dosing
occasionally Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, the cause of months. Houses may require multiple treatments to
program will protect the bird from coccidiosis and allow • Heavy infestations cause birds to become anaemic due to
swine dysentery). eliminate infestation. Filling cracks or holes in the house
stimulation of immunity in pullets. blood loss. These birds will be evident in the flock by their
• An abundance of frothy yellowish feces is often or equipment will limit potential red mite areas in the
• Live vaccine use is preferred to anti-coccidial drug pale combs. If severely affected, mortality may increase. house.
considered to be an indication of Brachyspira infection.
treatments. Vaccines are administered in the hatchery or • There may be loss of shell or yolk color.
• As with other intestinal infections, correct nutrition, good • Apply treatments at night when red mites are most
at chick placement in the rearing house.
water hygiene and avoidance of pooled water on range • Increase soiling of eggshells with mite feces, which may effective.
• Control of flies and beetles, which are vectors of coccidia
are important control measures. lead to downgrading of eggs. • Rotate pesticide products to avoid mites developing
spread.
• Laboratory diagnosis of infection is based on culture or • There may be an increase in floor eggs, as birds will be resistance.
• Thorough cleaning and disinfection of houses reduces
PCR of pooled fecal samples or microscopic examination reluctant to use infested nests. • Monitor the house and birds during the life of the flock
challenge pressure.
of ceca. and provide prompt treatment when red mites are
• Limit bird access to manure belts. • Egg collectors may experience skin irritation from red
• Affected flocks can be given antibiotic treatment (check observed.
• Cocci vaccines require cycling by contact to manure; mites.
local relations concerning antibiotic use). • Treatment to break the red mite life cycle, which is 10
discuss this with the vaccine manufacturer. days. A three treatment program (on days 0, 10 and 20)
• Dry, well drained pasture areas prevent the sporulation is effective.
of oocytes. The eggs of coccidia (oocytes) sporulate and
become infectious best when conditions are hot and
humid.
Red Mite/Northern Fowl Mite Treatments
(check local regulations regarding mite treatment)
• Pyrethroids—A manmade chemical that causes paralysis
and death in insects. As this is a common treatment,
resistant varieties of mites exist throughout the world.
• Organophosphates, carbamates—Interferes with
acetylcholine transmission in insects; results in death of
Red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae). the mite. Normally ingested by the parasite, there are
types ingested by the birds that are passed to the mite
when birds are bitten.
• Vegetable oil—Apply oil directly to the chicken to treat
mites (impractical solution for large operations).
• Mineral-based products (both liquid sand dusts)—Can be
applied to the floor and walls of the house to prevent the
spread of mites.
• Diatomaceous earth products—These kill mites by
absorbing the lipids from the exoskeleton and causing
dehydration. Unlike pesticides, there is no development
of resistance with these products.
Image Credit
Sakdoctor (username). “Dermanyssus gallinae mite.” 21 June 2007.
Online image. Wikimedia Commons. 18 September 2015.https://upload.
wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0f/Dermanyssus_gallinae_mite.
jpg. Creative Commons license at http://creativecommons.org/licenses/
by-sa/2.5.

External Parasites (continued) Vaccination Recommendations

Northern Fowl Mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) Vaccination
Northern fowl mite is another common ectoparasite of chickens. Certain diseases are too widespread or difficult to eradicate and require a routine vaccination program. In general, all
These mites feed on blood and skin cells of the chicken and layer flocks should be vaccinated against Marek’s disease, Newcastle disease (NDV), infectious bronchitis (IB), avian
can cause significant losses of productivity and health with encephalomyelitis (AE) and fowl pox.
heavy infestations. Northern fowl mite is usually found on the A single program cannot be recommended for all regions. Follow label instructions provided by the vaccine manufacturer.
downy feathers surround the cloaca (vent). They live on the Use only approved vaccines. Consult with local veterinarians to determine the best vaccination program for your area.
bird for their entire life, but can survive off the bird for three
weeks. Mites can be found on eggs, egg belts and on poultry BASIC COMMERCIAL LAYER VACCINE APPLICATIONS
workers when infestations are severe. There can be increased
susceptability of some individual birds to infestations while other WEEKS OF AGE
birds are unaffected. Infested birds can be identified by finding 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
characteristic dark areas on the feathers around the vent made up
of mites, dead mites, dried blood and skin cells. Marek’s disease • All commercial layers should be vaccinated with Marek’s
vaccine in hatchery
• Flocks that are nervous with increased feather and vent pecking • Rispens + HVT vaccine preferred
behavior.
• Feed intake may be depressed. Northern fowl mite. Photo courtesy Dr. Bradley Newcastle disease, moderate challenge areas, no velogenic Newcastle present
• Heavy mite infestation can depress egg production by up to 5%. Mullens, University of California, Riverside. • Vaccinations must be administered in compliance with the
• Heavy infestations cause birds to become anemic due to blood Australian Newcastle Disease Management Plan Standard
loss. These birds will be evident in the flock by their pale combs, Operating Procedures (www.animalhealthaustralia.com.
and mortality may increase. au/what-we-do/endemic-disease/newcastle-disease/).
Each State and Territory will have different vaccination
• There may be loss of shell or yolk color. requirements.
• Increased soiling of eggshells with mite feces may lead to Infectious bronchitis • 3–4 live vaccinations using multiple IB serotypes build
downgrading of eggs. cross-protective immunity (if serotypes have been
• There may be an increase in floor eggs, as birds will be identified in the area)
reluctant to use infested nests. • Live boosting vaccinations every 30–60 days during
production period may be needed to maintain high
• Egg collectors may experience skin irritation from northern fowl immunity
mites.
Avian encephalomyelitis • Given once between 6 and 15 weeks to prevent egg drops
Controlling Northern Fowl Mite
• Life cycle is 4–5 days, so outbreaks can occur rapidly.
• Pesticide treatments do not kill eggs, so repeat Northern fowl mite. Photo courtesy Dr. Bradley
treatments are needed for good control. Mullens, University of California, Riverside. • 1 or 2 vaccinations
Fowl pox
• Sulfur treatment of the environment or through feed
has been reported to have a good effect on controlling
northern fowl mites.
• The pesticide must pentrate the feathers to be effective.
Sprays should be delivered at 125 PSI and be directed 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
WEEKS OF AGE
to the vent area. Dust baths utilizing powder containing
insecticide can be used. Individual birds can be dipped
into room temperature pesticide solutions.
Live hatchery vaccines, given subcutaneous Live vaccines, administered via wing-web inoculation
Live vaccines, administered by drinking water, spray Inactivated vaccines, injected via intramuscular or
or eyedrop subcutaneous route
Northern fowl mite. Photo courtesy Dr. Bradley

Mullens, University of California, Riverside.

Vaccination Recommendations (continued) Flock Monitoring

OPTIONAL COMMERCIAL LAYER VACCINE APPLICATIONS WEEKS OF AGE AGES OF BODY WEIGHT MEASUREMENTS
Use if these diseases are prevalent in the area. Follow label instructions provided by the vaccine manufacturer. Use only 0
approved vaccines. Consult a local veterinarian for advice in designing an effective vaccination program for your farm. 0–3 weeks
• Bulk weigh 10 boxes of 10 chicks. Bird Handling—BE GENTLE
WEEKS OF AGE
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 5 • Proper handling of birds during
4–29 weeks body weight measurements, blood
Infectious coryza • 2 vaccinations separated by 4 weeks • Weigh 60–100 birds individually every week. collection, selection, vaccination,
• Autogenous bacterins utilizing local isolates are and transfer will reduce bird stress
10 • Calculate uniformity.
sometimes used and prevent injuries.
30–90 weeks • Hold birds by both legs or both
Fowl cholera • 2 vaccinations separated by 4 weeks wings.
• Weigh 60–100 birds individually every 5 weeks.
• Autogenous bacterins utilizing local isolates are 15 • Calculate uniformity.
• Return birds to floor gently.
OR OR
sometimes used • Use experienced personnel
• Live cholera vaccines such as M-9 or PM-1 are also used When handling birds for body weights, assess: that have been trained in proper
procedures of bird handling.
20 • Keel bone—straightness and firmness (see the
Infectious laryngotracheitis • ILT vaccination schedule will depend on local challenge; “Understanding the Role of the Skeleton in Egg • Continually observe personnel for
discuss with your veterinary advisor Production” technical update at www.hyline.com) proper handling.
• Eyedrop is the preferred method • Breast muscle score (see p. 10)
25
• ILT outbreaks may occur due to unwanted spread of ILT • Body fat
vaccine • External parasites
• For more information, see the “Infectious Laryngotracheitis • Clinical symptoms of disease
(ILT)” technical update at www.hyline.com 30
Egg drop syndrome • 1 vaccination is highly effective
AGES OF SERA COLLECTION
35
Mycoplasma gallisepticum, live vaccines • Live vaccines can control economic impact of
MG infection For more information, see the “Proper Collection and
Handling of Diagnostic Samples” technical update at
• TS-11 vaccine available; given by eyedrop
www.hyline.com.
40
Mycoplasma synoviae, live vaccines • MS-H vaccine available; given by eyedrop Collect 10–20 sera samples per flock for titer
determination.
45 8 weeks
Salmonella • Various live and inactivated programs are used; discuss
with your veterinary advisor • Assess early vaccination technique and disease
exposure.
Erysipelas • 2 vaccinations separated by 4 weeks 50
• Increased risk if pasture was previously used by sheep or pigs 15 weeks
OR OR • Collect sera before transfer to lay house to assess
• Bacteria can persist in soil for years
possible change in disease exposure.
55
• It is common to not send to laboratory and freeze for
future analysis in event of disease outbreak on lay farm.
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
WEEKS OF AGE 60 16–24 weeks
• Collect sera at least 4 weeks after final inactivated
vaccination to measure post-vaccination antibody
response.
65 Hold no more than three birds in one
Live hatchery vaccines, given subcutaneous Live vaccines, administered via wing-web inoculation • It is useful to assess disease challenge and response to
inactivated vaccinations after transfer to lay farm. hand.
Live vaccines, administered by drinking water, spray Inactivated vaccines, injected via intramuscular or
or eyedrop subcutaneous route
70
AGES TO MONITOR EGG WEIGHTS
75 Weigh 100 eggs from randomly selected nests. Monitor

egg weights on a specific day of the week within the same
3-hour time frame.
Monitor worm egg counts in pooled fecal samples every
80
month.
85
90

Egg Quality and Egg Size Distribution Egg Size Distribution (continued)
EGG QUALITY EGG SIZE DISTRIBUTION—AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS EGG SIZE DISTRIBUTION—AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS
AVG. % KING % % % % %
AGE HAUGH BREAKING SHELL AGE EGG SIZE JUMBO X-LARGE LARGE MEDIUM Under
(weeks) UNITS STRENGTH COLOR (weeks) WT. (g) 71.7–78.0 g 66.7–71.6 g 58.3–66.6 g 50.0–58.2 g 41.7–49.9 g 41.7 g
20 97.8 4605 89 20 51.2 0.0 0.0 6.1 54.2 37.8 2.0
22 97.0 4590 89 22 54.2 0.0 0.5 19.2 61.3 18.6 0.5
24 96.0 4580 89 24 56.6 0.2 2.2 34.6 53.3 9.6 0.2
26 95.1 4570 88 26 58.5 0.6 5.5 45.4 43.1 5.4 0.1
28 94.2 4560 88 28 60.2 1.5 9.5 53.0 33.3 2.7 0.0
30 93.3 4540 88 30 60.9 1.9 11.3 55.9 29.1 1.8 0.0
32 92.2 4515 88 32 61.3 1.9 12.1 58.6 26.2 1.2 0.0
34 91.5 4490 88 34 61.7 2.1 13.3 60.2 23.5 0.9 0.0
36 90.6 4450 87 36 61.9 2.2 14.1 60.5 22.5 0.8 0.0
38 90.0 4425 87 38 62.1 2.3 14.3 62.4 20.4 0.5 0.0
40 89.3 4405 87 40 62.3 2.5 15.5 61.8 19.7 0.5 0.0
42 88.5 4375 87 42 62.6 2.9 16.8 61.8 18.1 0.5 0.0
44 87.8 4355 87 44 62.9 3.6 18.3 60.7 16.9 0.5 0.0
46 87.1 4320 87 46 63.0 3.8 18.7 60.6 16.4 0.4 0.0
48 86.4 4305 87 48 63.2 4.5 19.7 59.5 15.9 0.4 0.0
50 85.6 4280 86 50 63.4 4.9 20.6 59.1 15.0 0.4 0.0
52 85.0 4250 86 52 63.5 5.4 21.1 58.1 15.0 0.4 0.0
54 84.6 4225 86 54 63.5 5.4 21.1 58.1 15.0 0.4 0.0
56 84.0 4190 85 56 63.6 6.0 21.6 57.0 15.0 0.4 0.0
58 83.1 4170 85 58 63.6 6.0 21.6 57.0 15.0 0.4 0.0
60 82.6 4150 85 60 63.7 6.6 22.0 56.1 14.9 0.4 0.0
62 82.2 4130 84 62 63.8 6.8 22.4 55.9 14.5 0.4 0.0
64 81.9 4110 83 64 63.9 7.1 22.8 55.6 14.1 0.4 0.0
66 81.6 4095 83 66 64.0 7.7 23.2 54.7 14.1 0.4 0.0
68 81.5 4085 82 68 64.1 8.0 23.5 54.4 13.7 0.4 0.0
70 81.1 4075 81 70 64.2 8.6 23.8 53.4 13.7 0.4 0.0
72 81.0 4065 81 72 64.3 8.9 24.2 53.2 13.3 0.4 0.0
74 80.8 4055 80 74 64.4 9.2 24.6 52.9 12.9 0.4 0.0
76 80.5 4040 80 76 64.5 9.9 24.8 51.9 12.9 0.4 0.0
78 80.2 4020 80 78 64.6 10.2 25.1 51.7 12.6 0.4 0.0
80 80.1 3995 80 80 64.8 11.3 25.6 50.4 12.2 0.4 0.0
82 80.0 3985 79 82 64.8 11.3 25.6 50.4 12.2 0.4 0.0
84 79.9 3975 79 84 64.9 11.6 26.0 50.0 12.0 0.4 0.0
86 79.8 3965 79 86 64.9 12.1 26.0 49.5 12.0 0.4 0.0
88 79.7 3960 79 88 65.0 12.4 26.1 49.2 11.9 0.4 0.0
90 79.7 3955 79 90 65.0 12.8 26.1 48.8 11.9 0.4 0.0
SHELL COLOR SCORES

Egg shell color is a genetically
determined trait but environmental
factors can reduce color. Certain
diseases which infect the shell gland,
such as infectious bronchitis and Egg
Drop Syndrome are known to reduce
shell color. Stress can result in the egg
being held longer in the shell gland,
70 80 90 100 110 resulting in white calcium carbonate
deposition on the egg shell surface.
For more information on egg quality, see the “The Science of Egg Quality” Shell color is gradually reduced with
technical update at www.hyline.com. advancing age.

44
2100 2100
2000 2000
1900 1900
1800 1800
1700 1700
1600 1600
1500 1500
Growth Curve
1400 1400
1300 1300
FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL

1200 1200
1100 1100
1000 1000
900 900
BODY WEIGHT (g)

BODY WEIGHT (g)
800 800
700 700
600 600
500 500
400 400
300 300
200 200
100 100
0 0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
WEEKS OF AGE
100 3000
90 2800
Hen-day egg
production (%)
80 2600
70 2400
Egg weight (g)
60 2200
Performance Graph
Body weight (g)

50 2000
MORTALITY (%)
EGG WEIGHT (g)
BODY WEIGHT (g)
40 1800
30 1600
20 1400
10 1200
Mortality (%)
FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL
0 1000
18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90
WEEKS OF AGE
45
Feed Ingredient Table 1 Feed Ingredient Table 2
CRUDE PROTEIN (%)

CRUDE LYSINE METHIONINE CYSTINE THREONINE TRYPTOPHAN ARGININE ISOLEUCINE VALINE
FAT–ether extract (%)
LINOLEIC ACID (%)

DRY MATTER (%)
CRUDE FIBER (%)

PROTEIN (%) (%) (%) (%) (%) (%) (%) (%)
CHOLINE (mg/kg)
POTASSIUM (%)
PHOSPHORUS
PHOSPHORUS
(%)
CHLORIDE (%)
CALCIUM (%)
SODIUM (%)
Total content
Total content
Total content
Total content
Total content
Total content
Total content
Total content
SULFUR (%)
ME (kcal/kg)
available (%)
ME (kcal/lb)
ME (MJ/kg)
Digestible
Digestible
Digestible
Digestible
Digestible
Digestible
Digestible
Digestible
content
content
content
content
content
content
content
content
INGREDIENT
total (%)
(as-fed basis)
INGREDIENT (as-fed basis) Barley 11.5 0.40 0.35 0.18 0.16 0.24 0.21 0.38 0.32 0.14 0.10 0.56 0.48 0.39 0.35 0.55 0.46
Barley, grain 89.0 11.5 1.9 5.0 0.08 0.42 0.15 0.03 0.14 0.56 0.15 1250 2750 11.51 1.1 1027 Beans, Field 25.7 1.61 1.37 0.18 0.13 0.30 0.20 0.88 0.69 0.22 0.15 2.27 1.97 1.02 0.74 1.15 0.83
Beans, broad (vicia faba) 89.0 25.7 1.4 8.2 0.14 0.54 0.20 0.08 0.04 1.20 – 1100 2420 10.13 0.9 1670 Corn 7.5 0.23 0.21 0.16 0.15 0.17 0.15 0.27 0.23 0.06 0.05 0.36 0.34 0.25 0.24 0.35 0.32
Calcium carbonate (38%Ca) 99.5 – – – 38.00 – – 0.06 – 0.06 – – – – – – Corn Gluten Feed 21.0 0.65 0.47 0.34 0.29 0.44 0.29 0.75 0.57 0.10 0.09 0.96 0.85 0.62 0.51 0.99 0.83
Canola meal (38%) 91.0 38.0 3.8 11.1 0.68 1.20 0.40 – – 1.29 1.00 960 2110 8.83 0.6 6700 Corn Gluten Meal 60.0 0.99 0.75 1.43 1.26 1.03 0.80 2.00 1.58 0.32 0.21 1.88 1.62 2.39 2.05 2.71 2.30
Canola oil 99.0 – 99.0 – – – – – – – – 4000 8820 36.92 20.50 – Dist Dried Grains & Sol, Corn 27.0 0.76 0.57 0.53 0.43 0.50 0.38 1.01 0.72 0.22 0.17 1.16 0.85 0.99 0.83 1.31 1.06
Corn, yellow, grain 86.0 7.5 3.5 1.9 0.01 0.28 0.12 0.02 0.04 0.33 0.08 1530 3373 14.12 1.9 1100 Cottonseed Meal 41.0 1.63 1.06 0.58 0.42 0.65 0.48 1.27 0.86 0.51 0.40 4.67 4.11 1.25 0.89 1.75 1.29
Corn gluten feed 88.0 21.0 2.0 10.0 0.20 0.90 0.22 0.15 0.22 1.30 0.16 795 1750 7.32 1.6 2420 DL-Methionine 58.1 – – 99.00 99.00 – – – – – – – – – – – –
Corn gluten meal (60%) 90.0 60.0 2.0 2.5 0.02 0.50 0.18 0.03 0.05 0.45 0.50 1700 3740 15.65 1.8 2200 Fish Meal (65%) 65.0 4.67 4.02 1.72 1.48 0.54 0.39 2.61 2.08 0.66 0.52 3.71 3.04 2.60 2.21 3.05 2.53
Distillers dried grains, corn 92.0 27.0 9.0 13.0 0.09 0.41 0.17 0.25 0.07 0.16 0.43 910 2000 8.37 5.05 1850 Fish Meal (61%) 61.0 4.24 3.65 1.57 1.35 0.50 0.36 2.39 1.92 0.60 0.47 3.45 2.83 2.39 2.03 2.82 2.34
Cottonseed meal (41%), mech. Extd 91.0 41.0 3.9 12.6 0.17 0.97 0.32 0.04 0.04 1.22 0.40 955 2100 8.79 0.8 2807 Linseed Products 22.0 0.92 0.83 0.39 0.31 0.37 0.29 0.80 0.73 0.33 0.30 1.99 1.83 0.90 0.79 1.07 0.92
Cottonseed meal (41%), direct solv. 90.0 41.0 2.1 11.3 0.16 1.00 0.32 0.04 0.04 1.20 0.42 915 2010 8.41 0.4 2706 L-Lysine·HCl 93.4 78.80 78.80 – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
Dicalcium phosphate (18.5% P) 99.5 – – – 22.00 18.50 18.50 0.08 – 0.07 – – – – – – L-Threonine 72.4 – – – – – – 98.50 98.50 – – – – – – – –
DL-Methionine 99.5 58.1 – – – – – – – – – 2277 5020 21.01 – – L-Tryptophan 84.0 – – – – – – – – 98.00 98.00 – – – – – –
Fat, animal 99.0 – 98.0 – – – – – – – – 3600 7920 33.15 – – Meat And Bone Meal 50.0 2.33 1.61 0.65 0.46 0.41 0.20 1.53 0.95 0.29 0.15 3.45 2.66 1.36 0.94 2.02 1.42
Fat, animal-vegetable blend 98.0 – 92.0 – – – – – – – – 3800 8379 35.07 30.00 – Oats 11.0 0.44 0.39 0.18 0.15 0.31 0.26 0.37 0.31 0.15 0.12 0.72 0.67 0.40 0.35 0.54 0.48
Fat, vegetable 99.0 – 99.0 – – – – – – – – 4000 8800 36.83 40.00 – Peanut Meal 47.0 1.50 1.14 0.49 0.42 0.59 0.47 1.20 1.02 0.46 0.40 5.19 4.72 1.50 1.34 1.82 1.62
Fish meal, anchovy, Peruvian 91.0 65.0 10.0 1.0 4.00 2.85 2.85 0.88 0.60 0.90 0.54 1280 2820 11.80 0.1 5100 Poultry Byproduct Meal 57.0 3.40 2.72 1.10 0.92 0.72 0.49 2.21 1.70 0.55 0.43 3.78 3.17 2.17 1.74 2.70 2.13
Fish meal, white 91.0 61.0 4.0 1.0 7.00 3.50 3.50 0.97 0.50 1.10 0.22 1180 2600 10.88 0.1 4050 Rapeseed Meal 38.0 1.95 1.56 0.73 0.61 0.92 0.71 1.55 1.13 0.52 0.41 2.32 2.02 1.46 1.15 1.86 1.47
Flaxseed 92.0 22.0 34.0 6.5 0.25 0.50 – 0.08 – 1.50 – 1795 3957 16.56 54.00 3150 Rice 7.3 0.26 0.21 0.19 0.17 0.17 0.14 0.25 0.20 0.09 0.08 0.57 0.52 0.28 0.23 0.40 0.34
Linseed meal flax (expeller) 90.0 32.0 3.5 9.5 0.40 0.80 – 0.11 – 1.24 0.39 700 1540 6.45 0.5 1672 Rice Bran 13.5 0.61 0.45 0.26 0.20 0.27 0.19 0.50 0.34 0.17 0.13 1.05 0.90 0.46 0.35 0.71 0.53
Linseed meal flax (solvent) 88.0 33.0 0.5 9.5 0.35 0.75 – 0.14 – 1.38 0.39 635 1400 5.86 0.1 1760 Safflower Meal 20.0 0.59 0.49 0.30 0.26 0.32 0.25 0.62 0.45 0.19 0.15 1.66 1.40 0.70 0.56 1.00 0.81
L-Lysine·HCl 99.5 93.4 – – – – – – – – – 1868 4120 17.24 – – Sorghum 11.0 0.25 0.23 0.19 0.17 0.19 0.15 0.35 0.29 0.12 0.11 0.41 0.36 0.43 0.38 0.53 0.47
L-Threonine 99.5 72.4 – – – – – – – – – 1619 3570 14.94 – – Soybean Expeller 42.0 2.50 2.25 0.58 0.52 0.62 0.51 1.64 1.39 0.52 0.50 2.94 2.73 1.88 1.67 1.99 1.75
L-Tryptophan 95.0 84.0 – – – – – – – – – 2653 5850 24.49 – – Soybean Meal (44%) 44.0 2.71 2.44 0.59 0.54 0.63 0.52 1.73 1.47 0.60 0.54 3.20 2.98 1.99 1.77 2.09 1.84
Meat and bone meal, 50% 93.0 50.0 8.5 2.8 9.20 4.70 4.70 0.80 0.75 1.40 0.40 1150 2530 10.59 0.5 2000 Soybean Meal (47.8%) 47.8 2.91 2.62 0.64 0.58 0.68 0.56 1.86 1.58 0.64 0.57 3.49 3.24 2.17 1.93 2.26 1.99
Mono-dicalcium phosphate (21% P) 99.5 – – – 16.00 21.00 – 0.05 – 0.06 – – – – – – Soybean, full-fat 38.0 2.40 2.09 0.54 0.48 0.55 0.43 1.69 1.39 0.52 0.45 2.80 2.52 2.18 1.87 2.02 1.72
Oats, grain 90.0 11.0 4.0 10.5 0.10 0.35 0.14 0.07 0.12 0.37 0.21 1160 2550 10.67 2.4 1070 Sunflower Meal (34%) 34.0 1.17 1.02 0.74 0.68 0.55 0.44 1.22 1.00 0.45 0.39 2.75 2.56 1.37 1.22 1.65 1.43
Peanut meal, solvent 90.0 47.0 2.5 8.4 0.08 0.57 0.18 0.07 0.03 1.22 0.30 1217 2677 11.20 0.5 1948 Sunflower Meal (41%) 41.0 1.37 1.19 0.88 0.81 0.66 0.53 1.45 1.19 0.54 0.47 3.42 3.18 1.66 1.48 1.99 1.73
Poultry byproduct meal (feed grade) 94.0 57.0 14.0 2.5 5.00 2.70 2.70 0.30 0.55 0.60 0.50 1406 3100 12.98 0.7 5980 Triticale 12.5 0.38 0.33 0.20 0.18 0.27 0.23 0.38 0.33 0.13 0.11 0.61 0.50 0.41 0.38 0.54 0.47
Rice bran, unextracted 91.0 13.5 5.9 13.0 0.10 1.70 0.24 0.10 0.07 1.35 0.18 925 2040 8.54 5.2 1390 Wheat (13.5%) 13.5 0.36 0.31 0.20 0.19 0.29 0.26 0.38 0.33 0.16 0.14 0.64 0.54 0.45 0.37 0.56 0.50
Rice, grain, rough 89.0 7.3 1.7 10.0 0.04 0.26 0.09 0.04 0.06 0.34 0.10 1335 2940 12.31 0.83 1014 Wheat (10.8%) 10.8 0.31 0.27 0.17 0.15 0.25 0.22 0.31 0.27 0.14 0.12 0.52 0.44 0.36 0.29 0.46 0.41
Safflower seed meal, expeller 91.0 20.0 6.6 32.2 0.23 0.61 0.20 0.05 0.16 0.72 0.10 525 1160 4.86 – 800 Wheat Bran 14.8 0.60 0.43 0.22 0.17 0.30 0.22 0.48 0.35 0.24 0.19 1.00 0.82 0.46 0.36 0.67 0.52
Salt, NaCl 99.6 – – – – – – 39.34 60.66 – – – – – – – Wheat Middlings 15.0 0.60 0.48 0.23 0.19 0.30 0.22 0.48 0.35 0.21 0.17 1.00 0.80 0.47 0.39 0.69 0.53
Sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO3 99.0 – – – – – – 27.38 – – – – – – – –
Amino acid digestibility is standardized ileal digestibility. Amino acid values are standardized for 88% dry matter (Source: Evonik
Sorghum, milo, grain 89.0 11.0 2.8 2.0 0.04 0.29 0.10 0.03 0.09 0.34 0.09 1505 3310 13.85 1.3 678 AminoDAT® 4.0, 2010). Values provided are “typical” based on ingredient surveys. Nutrient values should be confirmed by analysis of the
Soybeans, full-fat, cooked 90.0 38.0 18.0 5.0 0.25 0.59 0.20 0.04 0.03 1.70 0.30 1520 3350 14.02 9.9 2420 materials being used in order to maintain an accurate formulation matrix.
Soybean meal, expeller 89.0 42.0 3.5 6.5 0.20 0.60 0.20 0.04 0.02 1.71 0.33 1100 2420 10.13 1.8 2673
Soybean meal, solvent 90.0 44.0 0.5 7.0 0.25 0.60 0.20 0.04 0.02 1.97 0.43 1020 2240 9.38 0.3 2743
Soybean meal dehulled, solvent 88.0 47.8 1.0 3.0 0.31 0.72 0.24 0.04 0.02 2.05 0.43 1115 2458 10.29 0.6 2850
Soybean oil 99.0 – 99.0 – – – – – – – – 4000 8820 36.92 40.00 –
Sunflower meal, expeller 93.0 41.0 7.6 21.0 0.43 1.00 0.25 0.20 0.01 1.00 – 1050 2310 9.67 6.5 –
Sunflower meal, partially dehul, solv. 92.0 34.0 0.5 13.0 0.30 1.25 0.27 0.20 0.01 1.60 0.38 1025 2260 9.46 0.2 1909
Triticale 90.0 12.5 1.5 – 0.05 0.30 0.10 – 0.07 – 0.20 1430 3150 13.18 0.9 460
Wheat, hard grain 88.0 13.5 1.9 3.0 0.05 0.41 0.12 0.06 0.07 0.50 0.10 1440 3170 13.27 1.0 778
Wheat, soft grain 86.0 10.8 1.7 2.8 0.05 0.30 0.11 0.06 0.07 0.40 0.10 1460 3210 13.44 1.0 778
Wheat bran 89.0 14.8 4.0 10.0 0.14 1.17 0.38 0.06 0.14 1.20 0.22 590 1300 5.44 2.1 980
Wheat middlings 89.0 15.0 3.6 8.5 0.15 1.17 0.45 0.06 0.07 0.60 0.16 950 2090 8.75 1.9 1100
Nutrient recommendations are based on calculations using these energy and nutrient values (source: 2015 Feedstuffs
Reference Issue and field data). Values provided are “typical” based on ingredient surveys. Nutrient values should be
confirmed by analysis of the materials being used in order to maintain an accurate formulation matrix.


Hy-Line International Welfare Goals and Principles
To promote animal well-being and produce birds of the highest quality, we adhere to the
following welfare goals and principles. These goals and principles are the essential building
blocks for the humane and professional care of our birds:
• Feed and Water • Husbandry and Handling Practices

Provide access to good quality water and Provide comprehensive care and handling
nutritionally balanced diets at all times procedures that ensure the bird’s well-being
throughout its life
• Health and Veterinary Care
Provide science-based health programs and • Transportation
prompt veterinary care Provide transportation that minimizes travel
time and stress
• Environment
Provide shelter that is designed, maintained
and operated to meet the bird’s needs and to
facilitate daily inspection
RESOURCES
Corporate Information, Technical Updates and Product Updates available at www.hyline.com
Hy-Line International Lighting Program www.hylineweblighting.com
Hy-Line EggCel www.hylineeggcel.com
Hy-Line Bodyweight Uniformity Calculator www.hylinebodyweight.com
TECHNICAL UPDATES
Growing Management of Commercial Pullets
Understanding the Role of the Skeleton in Egg Production
The Science of Egg Quality
An Overview of Focal Duodenal Necrosis
MG Control in Commercial Layers
Colibacillosis in Layers
Proper Collection and Handling of Diagnostic Samples
Understanding Poultry Lighting: A Guide to LED Bulbs and Other Sources of Light for Egg Producers
Understanding Heat Stress in Layers: Management Tips to Improve Hot Weather Flock Performance
Infrared Beak Treatment
Fowl Pox in Layers
Avian Urolithiasis (Visceral Gout)
Feed Granulometry and the Importance of Feed Particle Size in Layers
Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD, Gumboro)
Impact of Tarp Color on Poultry Lighting
SPIDES (Short Period Incubation During Egg Storage)
Fatty Liver Hemorrhagic Syndrome
Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT)
Salmonella, Mycoplasma, and Avian Influenza Monitoring in Parent Breeder Flocks
PRODUCT UPDATE
Hy-Line Brown – Selecting for Superior Egg Quality
Hy-Line International | www.hyline.com
Hy-Line is a brand name. ®Registered Trademark of Hy-Line International. ©Copyright 2016 Hy-Line International. BRN. ALT.COM.AUS 2-16 rev. 12-29-17

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ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS—AUSTRALIA

Summary of Performance Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Dietary Nutrient Concentrations for Production Period. . . 23

Performance Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4 Vitamins and Trace Minerals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Chick Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Feed Particle Size (Grist). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Infrared Beak Treatment (IRBT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Calcium Particle Size. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Brooding Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–7 Preventing Floor Eggs in Aviary / Barn Systems. . . . . . . . . 26

Intermittent Lighting Program for Chicks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Management of Aviary Flocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27–28

Partial House Brooding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Management of Free Range Flocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29–31

Rearing Body Weights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Predators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Uniformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11–12 Litter Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Light Program for Light-Controlled Housing. . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Piling and Smothering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Customized Lighting Programs for Disease Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 1

Summary of Performance Standards Performance Table

2 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 3

Performance Table (continued) Chick Management

4 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 5

Partial House Brooding Growth and Development

AGE 0–3 days

AIR TEMP. 35–36°C 4–7 days

Relative Program 17.5 hours 25 lux 23–25°C 36–42 days

8 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 9

Growth and Development (continued) Rearing Body Weights and Uniformity

FEED INTAKE (g/bird/day)

Body weight (g) 80 target weight is reached. 105

10 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 11

Uniformity (continued) Rearing Period Nutritional Recommendations

FEED CONSUMPTION (g / day per bird)

BODY WEIGHT (g)

Crude protein5, % 20.00 18.25 17.50 16.00 16.50

12 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 13

Good Lighting Practices Customized Lighting Programs for

Light Program for Light-Controlled Housing • Click on “Create Lighting Spreadsheet.”

23 off 23 Total Hours of

22 Gradual light increases up to 30 weeks of age 22

14 8-Dec-16 7:30 6:45 17:15 16:45 10:30 9:15

1-Sep-16 29-Sep-16 27-Oct-16 24-Nov-16 22-Dec-16 19-Jan-17 16-Feb-17 16-Mar-17 13-Apr-17

14 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 15

Drinking Systems Water Quality

16 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 17

Perches Perch Dimensions Transition Period from Rear to Peak

FEED CONSUMPTION (g / day per bird)

HEN-DAY EGG PRODUCTION (%)

BODY WEIGHT (g)

EGG WEIGHT (g)

PERCH EXAMPLES 75 / 1100 10

Pre-Lay Peaking Ration

Transition Period Pre-Lay Ration

18 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 19

Transition Period from Rear to Peak Feed Consumption

FEED INTAKE (g/bird/day)

Barn Systems 105

Aviary Systems Plastic fencing is used to temporarily retain birds on

20 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 21

Production Period Nutritional Recommendations Dietary Nutrient Concentrations for

Hen-day egg production (%)

Metabolizable energy, kcal/kg 2796–2916 2748–2868 2701–2820 2629–2749

22 FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 2016 • © HY-LINE INTERNATIONAL 23

Vitamins and Trace Minerals Feed Particle Size (Grist)

Calcium Particle Size

Coarse (2–4 mm) – 50% 50% 55% 60% 65%

• The appropriate particle size depends on the solubility of limestone.

Fine calcium (0–2 mm) Coarse calcium (2–4 mm)